THOHOYANDOU – For the first time in the institution's history, the University of Venda For Science and Technology has produced a player to participate in the World Student Games.

Collins "Mwaruwaru" Chabalala, together with the other 17 students from other institutions, was selected to represent South Africa in the World Student Games that will be staged in Korea from next Monday, August 18.

Chabalala was the top goal scorer in the selection tournament that was organised by the South African Students Sports Union (SASSU). He scored 14 goals. The South African Sports Union is enjoying a huge sponsorship to the tune of R10 million from First National Bank.

Collins hails from a rural village called Mtititi, which is situated about 50km north of Malamulele Town. He started his soccer career in his home team, Plange United Citizens. He later joined the now-defunct Budeli Real Vultures. He moved to Black Leopards Football Club after Real Vultures was disbanded.

Chabalala was left in the cold when Black Leopards gained promotion to the elite league two years ago. That forced Chabalala to move to Winnerspark Football Club. He played a significant role towards Winnerspark's gaining promotion to the PLS First Division last season. He was the team's top goal scorer.

The other seventeen players who will fly to Korea with Chabalala are Kleinboy Mahlangu, Victor Sivhidzo, Theo Shivulani, Nlhankanipo Mkhize, Wandile Ntshume, Fani Nelani, Fannie Mamogale, Lebogang Tlometsane, Jabu Selumane, Alexandra Motsoeneng, Sechaba Mogamisi, Ditheko Motolo, Mtwa Luthando, Patrick Malokase, Brian Hlaletoa, Isaac Vilakazi and Norman Mthalane.

The team will be accompanied by Messrs Lewatle Laka (team manager), Mandla Tshabalala (assistant coach) and Sipho Dlangalala (head coach). A ceremony to bid farewell to Chabalala was held at the Thohoyandou branch of First National Bank on Tuesday.