The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is set to make a massive impact on the global stage as three staff members and five elite student-athletes prepare to represent Team South Africa at the upcoming International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Championship Rugby Sevens. Hosted on home soil at Stellenbosch University’s iconic Coetzenburg Campus from 4 to 6 September 2026, the prestigious tournament returns following a thrilling 2024 edition in France.
Leading the charge for the national side is UJ’s Patrick Ross-Allen, who steps into the role of head coach for the South African men’s team. Joining him on the sidelines from the Orange Army are medical specialist Wolta Mtsweni and team manager Bongani Mashiya, bringing top-tier expertise to the squad’s off-field support network.
On the pitch, UJ’s dynamic student-athletes will be central to the nation’s title hopes. The men’s squad features standout talents John Ford, Ughan Afrika, and Couniee Koekman, while Siyonela Macamba and Thobile Msizazwe have earned well-deserved selections for the South African women’s team.
The national men’s side enters the tournament with unfinished business. In 2024, an impressive South African outfit – also featuring strong UJ representation – marched unbeaten all the way to the final in France before falling short in a hard-fought 22–15 contest against the hosts. This year, the objective is clear: step onto home soil and bring the trophy home.
“I’m very excited that we are playing right here at home and looking forward to leading the South African men’s team again,” says Coach Ross-Allen. “In our initial camp, selecting the final squad was incredibly tough because of the extraordinary depth of talent across the country. Now, as we enter our final preparations, our goal as the host nation is singular: to win the tournament. Beyond the competition, we look forward to building lasting bonds with international teams, and I wish every country the very best.”
The competing nations include:
Men’s Division: South Africa, Argentina, Australia, Chile, Japan, Mexico, Norway, Uganda, Zimbabwe.
Women’s Division: South Africa, Australia, Botswana, Canada, France, Ireland, Japan, USA.
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