Excitement is in the air after the University of the Free State (UFS) announced that seven of its talented student athletes and staff members will represent South Africa at the World University Games (WUG). The Games are set to take place from 16 to 27 July 2025 in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, where athletes will come together to celebrate sport, science, and culture.

The UFS delegation includes archer Ignus de Wet and four standout athletes from the athletics sporting code: Gabriella Marais, Mthi Mthimkulu, Wernich van Rensburg, and Tyla Wasmuth. Kesa Molotsane, Athletics Sports Manager at KovsieSport (UFS), has been selected as the athletics team manager, and Marco Markgraaff, KovsieAquatics coach at KovsieSport (UFS), has been appointed Head Coach of the South African swimming team.

Gabriella Marais shared her enthusiasm about the selection, saying, “I’m extremely grateful for God’s grace that has sustained me throughout this season leading up to the USSA [University Sport South Africa] competition. I’m excited. It’s something my coach and I have worked hard towards, and to see it come together is incredibly rewarding. Representing South Africa in my first international competition in athletics is a huge honour, and I’m looking forward to giving it my all.”

The World University Games provide a unique platform for athletes to not only compete but also build friendships and connect with peers from around the world. Jerry Laka, Director of KovsieSport and President of USSA, spoke to the team during the announcement event. He highlighted the significance of the Games, stating, “The WUG is more than just a competition – it’s an opportunity to make your country proud, to inspire your fans, and to create unforgettable memories. So go out there, give your best, and make all of us proud. Let’s bring home the glory!”

The UFS community wholeheartedly supports these athletes and staff members as they prepare for this prestigious event. Their hard work and dedication exemplify the spirit of South African sports, and the community looks forward to seeing them shine on the international stage.