Collaborating Researcher
Marelise studied Physiotherapy at Stellenbosch University where she also obtained a Master’s degree in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy. She worked as an Orthopaedic and Sports injury Physiotherapist in both public and private health care, until she became a full-time PhD student as part of the Vrije University-NRF South Africa Desmond Tutu Doctoral Programme in 2015. She is currently based at Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine of the University of Cape Town.
For her PhD study, she will investigate the long-term consequences of catastrophic injuries in South African Rugby union players. This project will be conducted in conjunction with the Chris Burger /Petro Jackson Players’ Fund, a non-profit organisation that provides psychological, physical and emotional support for players who have been seriously injured. In her free time, she enjoys running and mountain biking.