The University of Pretoria celebrated the 25th anniversary of its Section Sports Medicine (SSM) on 19 September at the Future Africa campus. Since its inception in 1999, SSM has become a globally recognised centre of excellence, significantly impacting the careers of sports physicians, the health of athletes, and contributing cutting-edge research to the international sports medicine community.

The event, hosted by the Section Sports Medicine, brought together members of the Faculty of Health Sciences, UP executives, athletes, and alumni to reflect on 25 years of excellence and to look forward to the future of sports medicine at UP. Dr. Emmanuel Matsebatlela served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

Prof. Carolina Koornhof, Executive Director at the University of Pretoria, delivered remarks that highlighted the evolution of the Section Sports Medicine. She praised the section's contributions to promoting sports science, improving athlete care, and advancing research on sports injuries and rehabilitation. "Collaborations with various departments have strengthened the academic rigor of the section while increasing its practical impact on sports medicine," Prof. Koornhof said, noting the interdisciplinary approach that has underpinned the section’s success.

Prof. Carolina Koornhof

Prof. Tiaan de Jager, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, also addressed the audience, acknowledging the pivotal role SSM has played in advancing sports medicine at the university and beyond. "The section has been a leader in athlete care, sports injury rehabilitation, and the application of cutting-edge research into practice," de Jager said. He praised the leadership of SSM in education and research, noting that these achievements have solidified the Faculty’s position as a leader in healthcare innovation.

Prof. Tiaan de Jager

In addition, Prof. Soma-Pillay, Chairperson of the School of Medicine, emphasised the importance of the section’s research, which has led to ground-breaking advancements in areas such as injury management and athlete recovery. "The section’s success in producing highly skilled professionals, many of whom now serve as team doctors for elite sports teams, is a testament to its dedication to excellence," Prof. Soma-Pillay noted.

The evening's highlight came with keynote addresses by Paralympian Shaun Anderson and Proteas Netball Player Lungi Mthembu, who both spoke about the pivotal role sports medicine has played in their careers. They emphasised the importance of medical support in shaping their athletic journeys, underscoring the critical contributions of the SSM to their success.

Shaun Anderson

Prof. Christa Janse van Rensburg, Head of the Section Sports Medicine, shared the department’s journey, reflecting on its remarkable growth over the past 25 years. She acknowledged the dedication of the staff, students, and alumni who have contributed to the section’s success. "Our achievements are the result of hard work and commitment, and we are excited to continue innovating in sports medicine as we look ahead," said Prof. Janse van Rensburg.

The success of the Section Sports Medicine resonates deeply within the broader mission of the Faculty of Health Sciences. The integration of interdisciplinary education, clinical training, and research within SSM directly aligns with the faculty’s goal of fostering innovation and leadership in health sciences. Over the past 25 years, SSM’s contributions to athlete care, medical research, and sports science have solidified its role as a critical component of the university's academic and healthcare impact.

Lungi Mthembu

The 25th-anniversary celebration was not just a reflection on past achievements but also a forward-looking moment. As SSM continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to advancing health, performance, and well-being in sports medicine. The next chapter promises to build on the section's legacy, driving new advancements in research, education, and athlete care.

As the Section Sports Medicine embarks on its next phase, it is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of sports medicine education and research, ensuring the University of Pretoria remains a global leader in the field.