The influence of the University of the Free State (UFS) on the South African sporting landscape and the world stage is outstanding.
According to him, this is testament to the contribution that the university makes on a daily basis in the careers of sportsmen and -women.
The UFS shared in the spoils at the 15th version of the awards in Durban as former Shimla
Rassie Erasmus was named Coach of the Year, while
Miné de Klerk was the Newcomer of the Year. The young athlete, who is studying in America, is a member of the Kovsie Athletics Club.
The UFS also had a hand in the Team of the Year award, which went to the
Springboks. Many former Kovsies are involved with the team.
Hard work pays off
“We are very proud of administrators, sportsmen and -women who excel in this way,” says Prinsloo.
“It is a reward to the individuals and teams for their infinite determination and focused hard work.”
He says it shows the university’s impact to the rest of the country. “The hours, days, months, and years of hard work have paid off.”
Erasmus is South Africa’s Director of Rugby and was the 45th Springbok produced by the UFS. He helped the Boks achieve success in 2021, including a series victory over the British and Irish Lions.
De Klerk won gold (shot put) and silver (discus) medals at the World Athletics U20 Championships last year.
Erasmus,
Jacques Nienaber (Head Coach), and Daan Human (Scrum Coach) are all former Kovsies and part of the Springbok management, while the former Shimla, Ox Nché, plays for South Africa.
Attracting prospective students
The UFS Akasia Residence Head won silver (T11; 1 500 m) and bronze (T12; marathon) medals at the Paralympics.
She and her guides, Estean Badenhorst and Claus Kempen, were nominated for Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability. The sprinter Anruné Weyers (T47) took the honours.
Prinsloo says these achievements have an impact on prospective students.
“Through this, they are made aware of the contribution that the UFS and KovsieSport make, and its attitude towards sport and the promotion thereof.”
(Miné de Klerk was named Newcomer of the Year at 2022 SA Sports Awards. Photo: Dan Vernon (World Athletics)