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24 November 2021 | Story Jóhann Thormählen | Photo UFS Photo Archive
Pellies Park, the heart of the University of the Free State Athletics Club, is one of the many places on the Bloemfontein Campus where memories are made, and lifelong friendships are formed.

There is nothing like a proper reunion with old friends. Seeing former familiar faces, catching up, and sharing stories about the days gone by.

We know that many University of the Free State (UFS) alumni not only made friends while studying, but also formed a bond on the field, pitch, track, or court.

Whether you scored goals on the soccer field, kicked conversions at Shimla Park, served aces on the tennis court, made centuries at the cricket oval, or won a netball title in the Callie Human Centre.

Perhaps you ran thousands of laps at Pellies Park or made the UFS proud on the hockey astro. You are part of a special sports family.

We invite you to become part of the UFS alumni sporting community and celebrate those fond memories or even reconnect with those your shared the field with.

The UFS Sporting Legends project provides a platform to share special stories and memories, whether it is via pictures or telling a tale.

It celebrates the UFS camaraderie and unique culture across all sporting codes – whether you were a star or formed lifelong friendships.

This unique community includes many international athletes and even Olympic competitors. The likes of Wayde van Niekerk, Karla Pretorius, Ox Nche, Ryk Neethling, and many more form part of this UFS legacy.

Or maybe you took part on campus in the era of Joggie Jansen, Sarina (Mostert) Cronjé, Rassie Erasmus, or Zola Budd.
Get in contact with us by sending an email to alumni@ufs.ac.za with your details, information, stories, and photos and share in the UFS Sporting Legends spirit.

News Archive

2015 Open Day on Bloemfontein Campus inspires prospective students
2015-05-14

Photo: Charl Devenish

“Here we use our minds and not muscles. We use reason and not rage.”

This is how Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the University of the Free State (UFS), described what being a Kovsie is.

Prof Jansen welcomed thousands of prospective students and their parents to the Bloemfontein Campus on Saturday 9 May 2015 for the annual Open Day.

“Academics are everything. We don’t expect you to do well. We expect you to excel,” he said.

Prospective students got a taste of the #KovsieFeeling with a mind-dazzling laser show, a surprise performance by Micasa, the introduction of our sports champions, and an inspiring message from our SRC President, Mosa Leteane.

“When you are comfortable, you are not challenged. You can only learn to grow when you are uncomfortable.”

Visitors also had first-hand experience of how accessible Prof Jansen really is. At the Talk to Me gazebo outside his office, Prof Jansen dished up food while having a chat with parents. This gesture echoed Prof Jansen’s message: “If you want to be a decent human being, welcome to Kovsies.”

To all its visitors, the 2015 Kovsie Open Day, with all its fun and laughter, reflected the truth of the UFS as an academic institution that inspires excellence and transforms lives.

Even if you missed the Kovsie Open Day, be sure to grab the chance to study at our university, and ensure a lifetime of excellence and innovation. You can visit our Prospective Student webpage for more information.

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