The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) community is celebrating the appointment of its Head Chess Coach, Johannes Manyedi Mabusela, to the University Sports South Africa (USSA) National Chess Team management for the 2026 Confederation of University Sports and Colleges’ Sports Association (CUCSA) Games.
The 2026 CUCSA Games are currently underway in Gaborone, Botswana, from 28 June to 5 July, bringing together the finest university athletes, coaches and officials from across the Southern African region. Coach Mabusela’s appointment marks another significant milestone in a distinguished career that has been defined by excellence, leadership and an unwavering commitment to the development of university chess in South Africa.
Born and raised in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, Mabusela has earned recognition as one of South Africa’s most accomplished chess professionals. His rise to prominence began in 2002 when he claimed the African Junior Chess Championship title in Gaborone, Botswana. Two years later, he achieved the prestigious International Master (IM) title, cementing his place among the country’s elite chess players. Today, he is also a certified FIDE Trainer, combining his competitive experience with a passion for nurturing the next generation of chess talent.
At SMU, Mabusela serves as the Head Coach of the university’s chess team, where he has played a pivotal role in developing student-athletes capable of excelling both academically and competitively. Under his guidance, many students have gained opportunities to compete at national and international tournaments while maintaining strong academic performance.
Reflecting on his appointment, Coach Mabusela expressed gratitude for the opportunity to once again represent South African university sport on the regional stage.
“It is a great honour to be entrusted with this responsibility by University Sports South Africa. Representing our country’s university chess community is a privilege, and I look forward to working with talented student-athletes as we strive for excellence at the CUCSA Games. I am equally grateful to SMU for its continued support in creating an environment where both coaches and students can thrive.”
Beyond his responsibilities at SMU, Mabusela occupies several influential leadership positions within the chess fraternity. He serves as Vice-President and Head Coach of Tshwane Chess, while also chairing the University Sports South Africa Chess National Executive Committee. These roles have enabled him to make a lasting contribution to the strategic growth and governance of chess at both provincial and national levels.
Over the years, Mabusela has represented USSA with distinction, leading South African university chess teams at prestigious international competitions, including the FISU World University Championships and the FISU World Student Games. His wealth of experience continues to strengthen South Africa’s presence on the global university chess stage.
An SMU Sport representative congratulated Mabusela on his latest achievement.
“Coach Johannes Manyedi Mabusela’s appointment is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership, experience and dedication to developing university chess. His achievements continue to inspire our student-athletes and reinforce SMU’s commitment to sporting excellence. We are immensely proud of his accomplishments and wish him every success as he represents USSA at the 2026 CUCSA Games.”
Mabusela’s appointment further enhances SMU’s reputation as an institution that continues to produce outstanding coaches and student-athletes who excel on regional and international platforms while promoting excellence both on and off the chessboard.
By Rose Moreki
