University of Johannesburg: UJ football striker and student, Tristan Nikitaridis, joins PSL side Baroka FC

The traits of a football striker; tall for aerial advantage, skilful legs and shooting accuracy, have landed the University of Johannesburg (UJ) youngster, Tristan Nikitaridis, a three-year professional league contract with Baroka Football Club.

Baroka have announced the third-year UJ Sport Management student as one of their latest signings to play in South Africa’s professional football league, the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Nikitaridis was instrumental in the Orange Army’s campaign to championship during the 2021 FNB Varsity Football tournament.

He is one of several UJ players who have attracted interest from professional football teams due to their impressive exploits in Varsity Football tournament. Baroka have given Nikitaridis a 3-year contract with an option to renew for 2 years.

Nikitaridis started playing for UJ football in 2018. “This feels incredible. It is an absolute dream come true for me. I’m grateful for this opportunity and I am extremely excited for the chance to play for such a great team and showcase my talent at the highest level here in South Africa,” says Nikitaridis.

Nikitaridis went into the Varsity Football tournament hoping to help the UJ team get to the final of the tournament, little did he know that he would attract professional football scouts’ eyes and end up sigining a contract immediately after the competition concluded.

“I’m truly grateful to UJ for all they have done for me. I could have never asked for a better place to call my home for the last 4 years and UJ will forever be a part of me.

“To all the supporters of UJ, I thank you very much for all the incredible messages and support throughout the years. To the coaching staff, I thank you for all that you have done for me. I have learned so much from you all and will take all my lessons with me wherever I go,” adds Nikitaridis.