Student-athletes, coaches and officials from 26 South African universities, three private institutions, and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) gathered for the official opening of the USSA Netball Tournament, proudly hosted by the CUT Bloemfontein Campus.

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), Bloemfontein Campus has made history by hosting the 2026 University Sport South Africa (USSA) Netball Tournament from 29 June to 3 July, becoming the first University of Technology (UoT) in South Africa to stage one of USSA's premier netball championships.

The tournament has transformed the CUT Bloemfontein campus into the nation's netball hub, welcoming more than 900 student-athletes, coaches and officials representing 26 South African universities, three private institutions and one international institution, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). A total of 54 women's and men's teams will battle it out over five days of elite university netball, showcasing exceptional talent, fierce competition and unwavering team spirit in pursuit of championship glory.

The official opening ceremony set the tone for an unforgettable tournament, celebrating excellence, unity, sportsmanship and the power of university sport to inspire and connect young athletes from across the country.

In his welcoming address, USSA President Mr Jerry Laka encouraged all participating teams to compete with integrity, respect and passion, reminding student-athletes that true champions are defined not only by victory but also by their character on and off the court.

The ceremony was also attended by Netball South Africa President Ms Mami Diale, alongside representatives from the Mangaung Metro Netball Association, highlighting the significance of the tournament for university and national netball.

As the national governing body for university sport, University Sport South Africa (USSA) continues to drive the growth and development of competitive sport across the country's higher education institutions. Hosting the 2026 USSA Netball Tournament is a landmark achievement for CUT, reaffirming its commitment to sporting excellence, student development and providing a world-class platform for the next generation of netball stars.