The University of the Free State (UFS) boasts a remarkable history of nurturing national and international sporting heroes. From Olympic and Paralympic athletes to Springboks and Protea players in hockey, cricket and netball, the UFS has been a cornerstone of South African sports. The institution has also produced numerous sports administrators, medical professionals, and coaches at the highest levels.
In 2023, the UFS recognised its top athletes: Robert Summers was named Sportsman of the Year, while Refiloe Nketsa took home the title of Sportswoman of the Year. Johani van Tonder was honoured as the Junior Sportswoman of the Year, and Michael Annies was named the Junior Sportsman of the Year.
The excitement continues as the UFS prepares for the Free State Sport Stars awards, presented in partnership with Central24, with the gala event on 3 October at Monte Bello in Bloemfontein. This event honours outstanding international achievements from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024, with nominees for Sportsman, Sportswoman, Junior Sportsman, and Junior Sportswoman of the Year.
Among the nominees are several distinguished athletes, including:
- Mthi Mthimkulu (athletics): Represented South Africa at the World Athletics Relay Championships and won gold at the CAA African Senior Championships.
- Johani van Tonder (athletics – triple jump): Competed at the Brics Games in June 2024.
- Yolandi Stander (athletics – discus): Competed at the All Africa Games and the CAA African Senior Championships.
- Dumisani Motloung (athletics): Participated in the 1 500 m at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru.
- Caden Kakora (badminton): Secured bronze in mixed doubles at the Africa Games and represented South Africa at the All African Senior Championships.
- Robert Summers (badminton): Achieved bronze in men’s doubles at the Africa Games and qualified for the World Badminton Championships.
- Mianè Smith (cricket): Selected for the Protea women’s cricket team, which is currently touring Pakistan.
- Refiloe Nketsa (netball): A member of the Protea netball team in the Test Series in Australia and England.
- Karla Victor (netball): Star of the U21 team that won the African Qualifier, as she was named best player of the tournament.
- Ane Retief (netball): Represented South Africa at the World Fast5 Series in New Zealand in November 2023.
- Rolene Streutker (netball): Member of the Protea team that participated in the Test Series in Australia and England.
- Karabo Khanye (karate): Won silver and bronze medals at the KSA Open Elite Championship and was honoured with South African colours.
- Devan van Niekerk (hockey): Played for the South African U21 team at the Sultan of Johor Cup.
- Bontle Palesa Moroke (rugby): Part of the Junior Springbok women’s team against the Junior Sables.
- Sibabalwe Booi (rugby): Competed for the national U18 rugby team in the International Series.
Looking ahead
The upcoming Free State Sport Stars awards ceremony and gala event promises to be a night of celebration, honouring the achievements of the UFS’ athletes and continuing its legacy of sporting excellence.
As the countdown begins, the UFS community anticipates recognising the hard work and dedication of its exceptional athletes.
- Standard Bank is the main sponsor of the event.
