Division of Sport Science - Stellenbosch University

Big welcome to our new HP hons students of 2025 ☺️😁🙌🏽. The new honours class made it through week 1 of orientation. 1 more week to go before the academic program begins. We are looking forward to an amazing year with these great students ❤️🙏

End of term celebrations of the BSc Honours students in Performance Sport. Well done students👌.

Our students and staff recently presented at the South African Sports Medicine Association conference which was held in Stellenbosch. Well done everyone. We are so proud of all your achievements 👌

Prof Venter, received her full professorship. She presented her inaugural lecture on her life’s work, namely barefoot training. We are so incredibly proud of her. It was a wonderful occasion.

Well done to our post graduate students who presented at the annual academic day at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. We are proud of you 👏

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Prof Wilbur Kraak has passed away suddenly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and two children during this time of mourning. Prof Kraak has left behind a legacy and we will miss him dearly. He has touched every students heart at our department and UWC 😭😭😭😭. May his soul rest in peace 🙏.

We are exceptionally proud of Louise Engelbrecht who returned back from Belgium. Louise spent 6 months in Belgium as part of her joint PhD between Stellenbosch University and KU leuven. She collected her data in on that side. Welcome back. We wish you all the best with your studies 🙌

We are all proud of our PhD candidate Simon De Waal who presented his research findings at the conference in Paris, France 🇫🇷. Well done on an excellent presentation. You carried the SU flag high. Simon is guided by Prof R Lamberts and Dr S Jacobs.

🎓 Saying Farewell to Prof. Kraak – A New Chapter Begins! 🎓

Today marks a poignant moment as we bid farewell to a remarkable academic and HOD, Prof. Kraak. Your dedicated service to Stellenbosch University, and particularly to the Division of Sport Science, has left an indelible mark on all of us.

As you embark on a new journey, stepping into the role of Full Professor at the esteemed University of the Western Cape in the Department of Sport, Recreation, and Exercise Science, we can't help but feel a mixture of pride and sadness.

Prof. Kraak's contributions have been instrumental in shaping the future of sport science, leaving an enduring legacy within our academic community. While you transition into this new chapter of your career, we are heartened to know that your passion and expertise will continue to make a significant impact. As you devote your time to your new position, Prof. Kraak, we are grateful to hear that you will still be involved with us on a part-time basis, overseeing the growth of Masters and PhD students.

Your guidance and mentorship have been invaluable to our students, and your continued involvement will undoubtedly inspire them to achieve new heights.

A Message from Prof. Kraak: "To the incredible staff, dedicated students, and cherished former students – thank you for allowing me to be a part of your remarkable learning journeys. As I take this step towards a new adventure, I urge you all to go forth and create ripples of positive change in the lives of those you encounter. Cherish the knowledge you've gained, and let it empower you to make a difference. Farewell, and go well."

Prof. Kraak, your departure marks the closing of one door and the opening of another. As you say goodbye to familiar faces and familiar places, remember that your influence will remain woven into the fabric of this institution. Your contributions will continue to shape the minds of students and educators alike. Here's to Prof. Kraak, a true trailblazer in academia and a beacon of inspiration to us all.

May your new journey be as enriching and fulfilling as the legacy you leave behind.

Farewell and best wishes! 🌟👋📚