A dream that began on the football fields of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has become a reality after student footballer Nhlakanipho Ngwenya signed with Betway Premiership side TS Galaxy FC.
The third-year Diploma in Business and Information Management student was officially unveiled by the club on Saturday ahead of the 2026/27 season, becoming the latest DUT student-athlete to leap into professional football.
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Ngwenya, a winger from Mayflower in Mpumalanga, joined the DUT men’s football team in 2024 after impressing coaches during the University’s Freshers Cup.
He quickly emerged as one of the standout players during DUT’s historic debut Varsity Football campaign, scoring the University’s first-ever goals in the competition, including a memorable equaliser against defending champions Tshwane University of Technology.
His performances also extended beyond Varsity Football, helping Upton Residence lift the 2024 DUT Residence League title.
Speaking during DUT’s inaugural Varsity Football campaign in 2024, Ngwenya made no secret of his ambitions.
“Given a chance to choose between anything and football, I will always choose football and I’m one of the players hoping to get a professional contract after the tournament,” he said.
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Two years later, that goal has become reality.
Following the announcement of his move to TS Galaxy, Ngwenya reflected on reaching one of the biggest milestones of his career.
“It feels like a dream coming true. Those who know me know how long I’ve been longing to play in the Betway Premiership,” he said.
Thanks to the Man above and the Chairman of TS Galaxy for believing in me.
His journey to the top flight included a spell with Durban City FC after leaving DUT before earning his move to TS Galaxy.
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The university said Ngwenya’s success demonstrates the value of DUT’s sporting pathway, from residence leagues to Varsity Football and ultimately the professional game.
DUT congratulated Ngwenya on his achievement, wishing him well as he begins his Betway Premiership career while continuing his academic studies.
His signing adds to the growing list of university athletes who have successfully transitioned from campus sport to the professional ranks, further highlighting Varsity Football as an important platform for identifying and developing South Africa’s football talent.
