Finding your passion is one thing; following it is another. Itumeleng Moraladi, 23, epitomises the latter. During his gap year at the end of 2024, he enhanced his academic journey by completing an online short course in Sports Psychology through SACAP Global.
Having completed his Honours Degree on campus at SACAP in 2023, we’re curious why Itumeleng chose to complete the online course through SACAP Global. So, we asked him. This is what he had to say…
Going for gold
“I am very passionate about helping people,” Itumeleng tells us when we catch up with him. “Assisting someone in overcoming a difficult situation, whether they need emotional, mental or physical support, truly excites me.”
“I am also very competitive and take immense pleasure in achieving anything I set my mind to,” he continues. “No matter the challenges and obstacles, the feeling I get when I cross the finish line never becomes stale. It’s a sensation I cherish pursuing.”
Getting a head start
Fuelled by his commitment to assist others, Itumeleng is following his passion. “In a few months, I will start studying towards my master’s degree in clinical psychology,” he says.
“Last year, I had the opportunity and time to explore various avenues and expand my knowledge,” he continues. “I chose to explore sports psychology because I am fascinated by the connection between sports performance and mental wellbeing.”
Eye on the ball
Why SACAP Global? “I searched online for ‘sports psychology courses,’ and both SACAP Global and UNISA appeared as options,” Itumeleng responds. “I chose to continue my studies with SACAP’s short course division because I had previously completed my Honours Degree at the college.”
Itumeleng enjoyed his experience at SACAP, he says. “Due to the trust I built with the institution and the excellent service, I decided to pursue a short course at SACAP Global. It turned out to be as good as I had hoped – actually, it was even better!”
Hitting the mark
We asked Itumeleng to rate his experience of the online short course he completed at SACAP Global compared to the on-campus experience of his honours course. “It was nothing short of great!” he exclaims. “Really, I give it 10 out of 10. I enjoyed it a lot.”
“Virtual learning has always felt strange to me,” he admits. “I prefer engaging with people and lecturers in person. However, SACAP Global’s short course was exceptionally well organized,” a quality that made in-person learning unnecessary, he says.
“The course genuinely benefits you as a learner. While, in this particular course, there were no graded assessments (I’m not complaining!), some learning activities still present challenges and test your understanding of the material,” he notes.
Itumeleng particularly appreciated the mix of videos and articles. “It creates a wonderful balance. I’m not a big fan of constant reading!” he asserts.
Passing the torch
We asked Itumeleng how he expects his new sports psychology knowledge and skills to enhance his career trajectory. “I hope to gain extensive knowledge in the mental health industry,” he says, “especially in the topics and areas that I am most passionate about.”
“This short course has ignited my enthusiasm and aspirations for offering sports psychology services. I look forward to learning more, both in theory and through practical experience.” He said it adds to his growing knowledge in psychology.
We inquired whether Itumeleng intends to register for another SACAP Global online short course or workshop. “Although I’m not currently searching for one, I’m certainly interested in considering options. Every course provided by SACAP is enlightening, well-designed and straightforward,” he says.
“Other courses offered by SACAP Global that interest me include Holistic Approach to Managing Depression, Intro to Crisis & Trauma, and Enhancing Mental Health. I’m passionate about these subjects,” he adds.
Going the distance
Itumeleng’s journey in psychology will enter a new phase when he begins his master’s in clinical psychology at the University of Cape Town this year. He says he looks forward to reaching the podium on his path.
“In five years, I hope to be practising as a clinical psychologist in South Africa,” he concludes. “I aim to balance therapy and lecturing, as both are fulfilling. I’m also open to exploring other avenues in mental health. If my work involves therapy and education, I’ll be happy!”
Interested in exploring the diverse field of sports counselling or simply enhancing your current skill set? SACAP Global’s Sports Psychology short course is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
The learning experience is interactive, flexible and enriching. It comes highly recommended for anyone involved in sports, coaching, and business roles where effective team and performance management are crucial.
The Sports Psychology short course is available for on-demand learning. This means that you can register and start learning immediately. Get your head in the game; find out more or get in touch.