Cheerleaders raise the bar with provincial and national recognition
OUTSTANDING: The CPUT Cheerleaders.
Thursday, 11 June 2026
The CPUT cheerleaders are celebrating a number of outstanding achievements with team members making their mark at prestigious competitions and many earning provincial and national colours.
The team, which consists of 24 active members, has become a vibrant part of campus life, promoting university spirit through its lively performances.
“Our goal is to foster school spirit, unity, and pride within the university community. We strive to create a positive and inclusive environment that encourages student engagement, promotes teamwork and leadership, and inspires excellence both on and off the competition floor,” said Soné-Lee Jegels, Head Coach and Chairperson for the CPUT Cheerleaders.
This year the team has participated in three Western Province Majorette and Cheerleading Association (WPMCA) competitions, including the prestigious Cheer Champs competition.
The following students earned provincial and/or national colours:
- Mia Gertse – Western Province double colours (Pom and Hip-Hop); South African colours (Hip-Hop)
- Kelly-Jade Cleophas – Western Province colours (Hip-Hop); South African colours (Hip-Hop)
- Soné-Lee Jegels – Western Province colours (Hip-Hop); South African colours (Hip-Hop)
- Esona Hermans – Western Province colours (Hip-Hop)
- Thato Masopha – Western Province colours (Hip-Hop)
- Sinalo Mendu – Western Province double colours (Pom and Hip-Hop); South African double colours (Pom and Hip-Hop)
“Earning my South African colours is an incredible honour and a significant milestone in my cheerleading journey. I feel immensely proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent my country,” said Jegels.
“This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment that I have invested in the sport, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence both as an athlete and as a representative of South Africa.”
Student Development Officer: Sport, Arts and Culture, Cherice Mangiagalli, congratulated the team on its accomplishments and highlighted the significance of cheerleading's growing recognition at the university.
“I am incredibly proud to see cheerleading officially recognised as a sport at CPUT. It is a huge milestone that reflects the hard work, discipline and dedication of everyone involved in growing the sport,” she said.
“I am especially proud of the students who achieved Western Province and South African colours – an outstanding accomplishment that showcases their talent, commitment and passion. They continue to raise the standard and represent CPUT with excellence. Congratulations to all involved.”
Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za
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