Wits Sports Policy

Whilst the primary function of any university is, of course, academic, Wits University recognises the value of the development of physical skills and the fostering of recreational needs of students and staff in promoting good health, well-being and good fellowship.

Wits Sports recognises the important role that sport has to play in the development of Wits students and staff.

Members of the Wits community are given both the on- and off-field opportunities to work hard and develop themselves into individuals who are capable of competing and achieving at the highest level. Wits Sport’s ability to produce world class athletes has been proven in its proud history and many individuals within the University continue to achieve sporting success today. This sporting achievement is reflected in the many provincial and national athletes that can be found within the structures of Wits Sports. 

The University has established and maintains an administrative structure for the organisation, co-ordination and control of all sports activities. This takes the form of a permanent salaried administrative staff, under the Director Sports Administration, which works closely with a Sports Council appointed by the accredited sports clubs. 

The Wits Sports Council functions under a constitution approved by the Students Representative Council and the Council of the University. The Director: Sport reports through the Dean of Students, to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs).

It is the responsibility of Sports Administration to obtain the services of qualified personnel for the coaching and training of sportsmen and sportswomen in order that the sports talents of its students can be developed to their full potential. Promising sportsmen and women are encouraged to study at this University, provided that they fulfil the academic requirements. A limited number of sports bursaries are provided for such students. The University has also established a few sports scholarships for students of outstanding academic merit with excellent prowess in at least one sport.

The University encourages members of the administrative and academic staff with an interest in sport to make their services available in the administration of sports activities and/ or training programmes pertaining to sport.

The University of the Witwatersrand affirms that all members of staff and of the student body shall have the right to participate in every aspect of sport, without discrimination based on race, sex, nationality or creed.