UJ Sport: Train Like a Champion While Earning Your Degree

Are you a talented athlete in South Africa aiming to balance your sporting ambitions with higher education? The University of Johannesburg (UJ) offers a compelling pathway to train like a champion while earning your degree. UJ is committed to fostering both academic excellence and athletic development, providing top-tier facilities and comprehensive support systems for its students.

What is UJ Sport?

UJ Sport is an integrated programme designed to support students who aspire to excel in their chosen sporting codes while simultaneously achieving academic success. The university champions a holistic approach to student development, recognizing the crucial role sports play in cultivating discipline, teamwork, and resilience. This inclusive ethos ensures that talent is identified and nurtured, whether you are already a registered UJ student or an aspiring non-student athlete looking to represent the university.

Available Sporting Codes at UJ

The University of Johannesburg offers an impressive variety of 12 sporting codes, catering to a wide range of athletic interests. These include:

• Athletics
• Basketball
• Chess
• Cricket
• e-Sport
• Football (Soccer)
• Hockey
• Netball
• Rowing
• Rugby
• Squash
• Sport for Students with Disabilities

This diverse offering ensures that aspiring athletes can find a sport that matches their passion and skill level within the UJ system.

State-of-the-Art Fitness and Training Facilities

UJ provides its athletes with access to modern training facilities across its four main campuses: Auckland Park Kingsway (APK), Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB), Doornfontein Campus (DFC), and Soweto Campus (SWC). These campuses are equipped with four well-equipped gymnasia fitness centres featuring state-of-the-art equipment.

UJ Gym Membership:

• Available to students, staff, and alumni.
• No joining fees or long-term contracts.
• Student monthly membership fee was R200 in 2023 (prices subject to change).
• Operating Hours:
• APK: 08h00 – 19h00
• APB and DFC: 08h00 – 15h00
• SWC: 10h00 – 18h00
• Gyms are closed on weekends, public holidays, and university holidays.

Sports Bursaries: Funding Your Athletic and Academic Journey

For students who have demonstrated exceptional talent by achieving at a provincial or higher level, UJ offers valuable sports bursaries. These bursaries aim to ease the financial burden, allowing dedicated athletes to concentrate on both their academic studies and their sporting commitments.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be a registered full-time UJ student pursuing a three or four-year course.
• Demonstrate both a strong academic record and significant sporting excellence.
• Provincial or higher level sporting achievement is required.

Prospective applicants must submit a comprehensive sports CV and official proof of their achievements, such as provincial colours.

Applying for UJ Sports Bursaries: Key Dates and Requirements

The deadline for sports bursary applications is typically 30 September of the current year for the subsequent academic year. While late applications might be considered under exceptional circumstances, adhering to the deadline is strongly advised.

It is crucial to understand that sports bursary holders must re-apply annually. UJ adheres to a strict 'no double dipping' policy, meaning bursary recipients cannot benefit from multiple UJ bursaries concurrently. Additionally, sports bursaries do not cover registration fees.

While specific APS scores are not detailed, a strong academic performance is generally a prerequisite for most UJ bursaries.

UJ Culture Bursaries: Supporting Artistic Talent

In addition to athletic pursuits, UJ also champions artistic and cultural excellence. Culture bursaries are available for students actively involved in UJ Arts and Culture groups, recognizing and supporting the diverse creative talents within the student body.

Become a UJ Student Athlete

Whether you're interested in joining a UJ sports club or applying for a bursary, the first step is often to explore the official UJ Sport Bureau resources. UJ welcomes both registered students and non-student athletes to represent the university, ensuring a broad base of talent and participation across all sporting codes.

The University of Johannesburg’s dedication to supporting student-athletes and artists is clearly demonstrated through its comprehensive sports programme, modern facilities, and accessible bursary opportunities. By enabling students to balance academic rigor with sporting and cultural pursuits, UJ empowers them to achieve their full potential both on and off the field.

If you are a driven individual with a passion for sport or culture, UJ offers a supportive and enriching environment to pursue your aspirations and build a successful future.