A BRAND new ‘Beautiful Game’ is taking the world by storm, and it brings a whole new meaning to getting the ball rolling. The game takes place inside giant inflatable ‘bubbles’. Bubble soccer, as it is know, has players encased in a zorb-like inflatable bubbles and then encouraged to bounce into each other as they fight for possession of the ball.

Now, Durban North will host an event that is sure to get residents practising their ball control. The idea, is the brainchild of former Northwood School pupil, Rodney Frank, who has teamed up with local residents from Durbanite. Frank, who runs Shizaya Productions, a team building company, will host the first Bubble Soccer Championship.

“It doesn’t hurt at all, it’s a bit tough when you land on your back to get back up again, it’s like your a turtle on your back knocked on their backs like turtles. I imported these zorbs from China and bubble soccer is really catching on with locals. They love it. The aim of this event is to get people active and having fun. We are encouraging mixed teams to come down on the day and just have balls of fun,” he said.

His thoughts were echoed by Theresa Ferreira, who said the other reason it’s hard to get back up is because your laughing at other people.

“It’s great fun, you are all just bouncing off each other, and sometimes people get stuck in weird positions, it’s hilarious. I think that it’s added a more light-hearted to soccer, you can’t really tackle people with your feet, you’ve got to push them off the ball instead. It’s not something that I think anyone will ever get bored of,” she said.

Event Details

The Bubble Soccer Championships takes place on Saturday, 3 September from 10am to 5pm at the Crusaders Sports Ground. The competition is for players over 12 and teams of six can enter (four-a-side plus two reserves). To enter a team costs R500. For more information or to enter email sales@shizayadrums.com or contact 082 334 6403.