French Society
Hannah Sieb, chairperson, says “The French Society is a diverse group of French speakers ranging from those who can speak a few sentences all the way to the native speakers. We plan events and weekly conversation groups, as well as a trip to the Festival Francophone in Cape Town and a movie night. On a hate de vous voir a notre societe – – we can’t wait to see you at our society!”
Hannah adds that, fortunately, that eating escargot is not a prerequisite for club membership.
Ecomaties
Olivia Smargiasso, EcoMaties chairperson, describes the club as an enthusiastic group of environmentalists who aim to make Stellenbosch University (SU) a more sustainable place. She adds, “Through our climate change, biodiversity and sustainable agriculture portfolios, we have plenty of fun, educational events and activities to spread awareness and encourage action”. Upcoming events include ‘Temperature Rising’, a screening in collaboration with Fossil Free SA on 13 March, a garden clearing session, and biodiversity hike. Spot any EcoMatie on campus by any combination of slightly faded and tattered thrifted shirt and shorts, vegan-x sandals and some variation of Sealand accessory.
Maties Climbing Society
Once called the Berg-en-Toer (BTK) club’s hardcore younger sibling, this club is famous for its adrenaline and adventure seeking members. Its headquarters are on a dirt road, past Coetzenberg stadiums: an emporium-like shed of wooden walls with routes beckoning to be climbed. They host outdoor climbing weekends in Montagu and Cederberg for gumbies and experts alike. The club is also planning indoor events incorporating a fusion of climbing and live music.
Ultimate Frisbee
With its members known to spend equally as much time at Dorp or Bohemia’s as on the sportsfield, this club keeps on growing and getting better. Country wide, the club’s reputation is nothing short of brilliant. In national rankings in 2024, the Men’s team ranked 5th while the Mixed team achieved its highest position in 3rd place. Club committee member Ella Vorster told Die Matie, “Ultimate Frisbee is a community of people that aims to bring the vibe to all aspects of this sport. We offer a selection of levels ranging from casual frisbee (complete beginners) to our residence leagues, as well as competitive practice”.
Maties Underwater
A student-run club that promotes scuba diving and underwater exploration. They’re open to anyone who is interested in getting to know and love the ocean – even if you have never dived before. Their Instagram page can be found @matiesunderwater. Legend has it that the club managed to squeeze a snorkel and goggles on Pokkel, SU’s mascot, at their most recent dive at Simonstown.
Maties Golf
Committee member Matt Willis says that the club looks to be both competitive and appealing to all levels of interest. They are preparing to host some social events as well as striving to perform at a top level against our competing universities.
Wine Society
Not your regular bunch of wine ‘ous. As one of the oldest and most attended societies at Stellenbosch University – for good reason – society member Zoie van de Venter says they offer the opportunity to attend weekly wine tastings around town and monthly visits to the region’s best wineries. The deal is great too – year long membership stands at only R600, roughly the same price of two well-aged Woolies reds which go sour after a month in your wine cabinet.
By James Laing
