School of Engineering Sports Day a Runaway Success!

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Soccer, volleyball and baseball were played in a fun atmosphere for everyone during the School of Engineering’s Sports Day held on rugby fields on the Pietermaritzburg campus.

‘We decided to have the Sports Day so that staff could meet each other and build team spirit,’ said School of Engineering Manager, Mr Ronal Thakurpersadh. ‘Engineering is fairly large and is made up of nine disciplines spread over five large buildings and some staff have never met each other. So the aim of the day was for staff to at least meet and greet. The event was a great success and we hope to have more in the future.’

Technical Manager for the School, Mr Roland Koch, said: ‘It was a great day!  The weather held out, the food was great, and the sport was fun to play and to watch.  There were very few who were not able (or forced) to participate, and everyone seemed to have a smile on their faces all the time.

‘Men and women together stampeded happily and noisily after the soccer ball. It did not matter that sporting rules were broken repeatedly, it was just fun!   There was no such thing as “off-sides”. Players could tug at opponents’ shirts if they felt threatened,’ said Koch. 

‘Volleyball and rounders were played with gusto and friendly aggression.  There might have been a few bruises and sore muscles afterwards but team spirit was enhanced that day. Many suggested that it be repeated on a regular basis.  Our thanks must go to all those who put this most successful afternoon together.’

Teaching and Learning Administrator for Chemical Engineering, Ms Venishree Pillay, said:  ‘The Engineering Sports Day was an exhilarating event where both academic and support staff participated in soccer, volleyball and baseball.  It was a huge success in terms of fitness, socialising outside the work environment and cultivating a sense of team spirit.  The day was filled with laughter as the female soccer stars took to the field.   The fun activities were well worth the aching muscles.   It was an absolute blast!’

Prashina Kallideen