The Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) is celebrating a historic achievement as its bodybuilding coach, Raphael Ntumba, has been appointed as the University Sports South Africa (USSA) bodybuilding coach for 2025.

USSA is the official governing body for all sports played at South African tertiary education institutions. It oversees and coordinates competitions, development programmes and talent identification across universities and colleges nationwide. With its structured provincial and national committees, USSA ensures student athletes compete at the highest levels while upholding fairness, academic integrity and transformation in sport.

Raphael has built a reputation as a coach of champions. His students have won numerous national titles, elevating the Vanderbijlpark Campus as a powerhouse in university bodybuilding. His appointment to the national role recognises both his personal dedication and the success of his athletes.

"This is more than just a personal milestone – it is a reflection of the hard work and commitment of every student athlete I have coached. My goal is to develop and guide university bodybuilders across the country, ensuring they have the support and preparation needed to compete nationally and internationally," said Raphael.

As the 2025 USSA season approaches, Raphael will lead South Africa’s university bodybuilders, fostering new talent, promoting discipline and raising the profile of bodybuilding in the country’s higher-education sector.

Raphael Ntumba