Wolfgang Ruf

Wolfgang Ruf is a Professor of Sport-Oriented Social Work at the DHGS German University of Health and Sport since 2019. He holds a doctorate from the University of Graz (2017), focusing on physical activity promotion for individuals with mental illnesses, which earned him the Styrian Sports Science Prize (2018). His research explores the intersection of sport, social work, and public health, emphasizing health promotion, social inclusion, and clinical applications.

Education:

• Bachelor’s/Master’s in Sports Science (Sports Pedagogy) from University of Graz and Tartu University of Applied Sciences (Estonia, completed 2008)
• PhD in 2017 from University of Graz, addressing determinants of physical activity in people with mental illnesses

Research Interests:

• Development of sports social work theory
• Health promotion through exercise in clinical settings
• Social participation and inclusion via sport
• Role of organized sport in social responsibility

Publications reflect a focus on physical activity’s impact across diverse populations, including mental health patients, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and pregnant women. His work bridges clinical practice, public health, and social policy.

Scientific Awards:

• Styrian Sports Science Prize (2018)
• Julius Raab Foundation Scholarship (2018)

Professional Contributions:

• Founded and led a sports club for individuals with psychosocial challenges (2007–2014)
• Leads the evaluation of the Spandau community exercise project (since 2019)
• Reviewer for national/international journals and member of DBSH and DGSA’s ‘Movement, Sport, and Body’ group