Bubble Soccer and the UCT Day experience: An alumnus’ reflection

University of Cape Town (UCT) alumnus and now graduate-intern in the Communication and Marketing Department (CMD), Thandile Xesi reflects on UCT Day, both as an alumnus and an energetic Bubble Soccer competitor.

As I looked out over the crowd gathered for UCT Day, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. As the day progressed, I found myself reflecting on the significance of this event for the UCT community. It became clear to me that this was more than just a fun day of games and activities – it was an opportunity for people from all walks of life to gather and celebrate what it means to be part of UCT.

What struck me most about UCT Day was the diversity of the people in attendance. There were students from all different backgrounds, staff members who had dedicated their careers to the university, and alumni who had gone on to do great things. Witnessing that kind of unity made me realise that UCT is more than just a place to earn a degree. Being part of such a diverse and vibrant community was truly inspiring.

Amid all the serious reflection and introspection, it was also great to have some fun! Bubble Soccer was one of the highlights of the day. It was hilarious to see people running around in giant bubbles, trying to score goals and avoid collision. The scene was both comical and heart-warming, as adults fumbled around in their big bubbles.

“The goal was a feat of finesse, skill and determination and the crowd was going wild!”

As a spectator and participant, it was like witnessing a human game of bumper cars with more bouncing and fewer cars. I scored a goal in the most epic bubble soccer game of all time! It was as if the heavens parted, and the bubble soccer gods were smiling down on me. The goal was a feat of finesse, skill and determination and the crowd was going wild! It was the icing on the cake (the cherry on top to an awesome day). The opposition team were in shambles, their confidence popped – like a bubble. But my team stood tall, victorious with a grin wider than a bubble ball’s circumference.

As the sun set on the UCT Day event, the day’s activities were a distant memory, but the thrill of my bubble-ball dominance lingered. The event not only highlighted the excitement of Bubble Soccer and other fun activities but also celebrated the university’s progress towards its vision for the future. Indeed, the event reflected UCT’s commitment to transformation, sustainability and inclusivity.

Bubble Soccer and many other fun activities that took place on the day embodied the spirit of collaboration, teamwork and inclusivity, in line with UCT’s Vision 2030.