Intersecting a historic day with sport, the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Sport Division commemorated Human Rights Day 2026 by turning the pitch into a platform for equality. This year’s UJ Internal League was launched with the unveiling of the official hydration partner, Score Beverages, uniting over 1,000 student-athletes and local learners in a vibrant display of sporting excellence and community spirit.
The event, organised at the UJ Sport facilities in Westdene, was more than just a kick-off – it marked a celebration of the fundamental right to play, compete, excel and build community bridges.
A multidisciplinary arena
Annually, the league brings together a diverse cohort of competitors, ranging from on-campus student residents to those who live in private accommodations off-campus. The students enjoyed a fun-filled day, playing football, netball, and running athletic sprints. Tech-driven students also enjoyed eSports games, while others competed in Indoor Rowing and Chess.
Bridging the gap: The UJ Academy partnership
In a standout move for grassroots development, the UJ Academy (situated in Crosby, a few kilometres from Aukland Park) sent its Under-15 boys’ soccer team alongside its Under-15 and Under-19 netball squads to feature in the games. This collaboration served as a strategic bridge between secondary education and tertiary sporting success.
“UJ Sport is committed to grassroots development,” said Ms. Nomsa Mahlangu, Senior Director of UJ Sport. “We are providing these teams with playing kits and equipment to ensure that they have the necessary means to develop prospective players, not just for UJ, but for the future of sport in the region.”
Scouting the stars of 2027
The launch served a dual purpose: celebration and talent identification. Ahead of the event, Ms. Nompilo Zondi, Senior Manager of UJ Sport Clubs, noted that UJ coaches would be watching the Academy players closely. The goal? To identify the next generation of student-athletes who will join the Orange Army in 2027.
Shane Lothian, Administrator and Football Coordinator at UJ Academy, expressed his gratitude for the inclusion of the UJ Academy teams in the launch games: “Our learners wanted to showcase their talent to impress on such an occasion. The assistance with kits and equipment will go a long way in empowering our students.”
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