By Amber Steyn
To be a part of any sport at Stellenbosch University (SU) means to be a part of a community – a team. At SU, our newcomers have a variety of options in regard to the sport in which they would like to participate.
The sports offered by SU are rugby, football, cricket, hockey, netball, swimming, water polo, basketball and athletics. Within the Recreational and Active Lifestyle Unit (RALU) there are cheerleading, equestrian, ultimate frisbee, wall climbing and underwater sport. Lastly, within the Competitive Unit, there is badminton, chess, cycling, e-sport, fencing, gymnastics, parasport, squash, table tennis, volleyball, tennis, sailing, rowing, golf and canoeing.
Anche Nortjie, the senior sport manager for hockey and RALU, gave insight into the trialing process for Maties Sports. He said that, for hockey specifically, they have to sign up via the Maties Hockey Instagram page and the club will communicate directly with the students to inform them about the dates and times of trials taking place. Other sports follow a similar process for trials to compete in.
Another option is the residence/CSC sport clubs if you are looking for something requiring less commitment but just as much fun. There is a fee for residence/CSC sports, but cluster sports are free. For students who are interested in participating in sport for their own enjoyment, their assigned residence/CSC have what they are looking for. RALU also hosts events open to all through community sign ups. There is a very vibrant and competitive residence league for most sports.
“We [had] a Colour Run scheduled for the first time ever for the newcomers on [31 January],” said Nortjie. For this Colour Run, newcomers [were] able to sign up via their communities. She added that on 18 September they will be hosting a Women in Sports tournament for females only.
Staying active is possibly one of the best ways to stay healthy and keep a clear mind. Join a sport, or even just go for a hike with your community or residence. Whether you join sports to stay active or make friends, live out the memorable moments. Your mind and body will thank you.
