COACH’S

GADIJA JAPIE CPUT Ladies Volleyball Coach

I’ve been involved in volleyball for 30 years, played in the national team for 16 years and I’ve been coaching for 13 years. I am qualified as an FIVB International Volleyball coach and I’ve been coaching Varsity teams, Club teams, Provincial teams and SA Teams over the past few years. I have a love for the game, and my passion is developing players, coaching and motivating them to achieve their full potential as an athlete and volleyball player.

Gadija gave us a bit of insight into her role as Volleyball Coach at CPUT…

What is your coaching philosophy/How do you go about coaching the CPUT women’s volleyball team?

I coach because I have a love and passion for volleyball and I want to see the sport grow. My philosophy is creating a fun and positive experience when playing volleyball and at the same time creating a competitive team environment where we strive to develop and perfect the technical skills as well as implement the character building aspects that comes with playing a team sport. I coach the CPUT team with those same expectations – we show up, we respect each other, we learn and discover, we work hard, we have fun and at the same time, when we play matches, we aim to compete, not just participate.

What have been the highlights for 2022?

Participating in the Cape Town Volleyball league and winning most of our matches was very exciting. Ending 2nd in the UCT open tournament was certainly a highlight for us.

Where do you see CPUT volleyball in the future?

I see CPUT volleyball growing and being amongst the top Varsity teams. We are also looking to secure a top 4 position in the Western Cape; we are already well on our way.

KYLE FERNANDEZ CPUT Men’s Volleyball Coach

I have my coaching qualifications in Volleyball which is the VSA level 1 course and I have experience working with elite and professional coaches around the world. I have my Bachelor of Education degree from CPUT, completed my Honours Degree at UCT and currently doing my Master in Education at Stellenbosch University.

This is what Kyle had to say…

What is your coaching philosophy/ How do you go about coaching the CPUT men’s volleyball team?

My philosophy towards coaching is to be disciplined and to be a student athlete. To focus on not only sport but academics as well. To excel at all aspects in life.

What have been the highlights for 2022?

1. The team won their first game at USSA in more than 5 years.

2. The males team reached the top 4 in the Cape Town Volleyball Federation League.

3. Reaching a Squad size of 15 players

4. Represented CPUT at the USSA Beach Volleyball for the first time in history.

Where do you see CPUT volleyball in the future?

1. Doing well at USSA

2. Players being able to represent CPUT at the world student games

3. Being called up for the national team