History

The foundations to the Sports Science Institute were laid in April 1994, at the same time as those of the new South Africa. The idea for a Sports Science Institute to develop sport in South Africa was initially generated by way of extensive interaction between Morné du Plessis, Professor Tim Noakes and Johann Rupert.

This interaction resulted in the formulation of a vision to provide a facility for South Africa that would contribute to the fostering of understanding and unification across the country. This would be achieved by increasing the level of performance of all our sports people, encouraging support for our sportsmen and women across all cultures and groups.

The dream culminated in the construction of a facility in Cape Town that would provide extensive research and training space for the Bioenergetics of Exercise Research Unit of the University of Cape Town and the Medical Research Council, headed by Prof. Noakes (now known as ESSM).

This provided a unique opportunity for the application of research with the overall goal of improving performance and health while reducing the risk of injury.

Quotes

Fitness is our science. Through scientific research, programmes and services can be developed that will optimize the performance of all who use our facility.

-Prof. Tim Noakes

The institute is inclusive,not exclusive and is based on the premise that we can build a healthy nation through physical activity and create unity through the development of sporting excellence.

-Morné du Plessis