Lihle Zitumane shapes to shoot after dribbling around the goalkeeper, who is also his work colleague. Photo: Nicholas Zaal
Your work colleagues might be on your side during the day, but at night they could be part of a team out to destroy you.
Waverley Sports Club sees soccer fanatics from corporates play games week in and week out on its 5-a-side pitches.
Lihle Zitumane is fleet of foot during a Singular Systems social soccer game. Photo: Nicholas Zaal
While no leagues are held and tournaments between companies are usually only played at the end of the year, the social games can be very competitive.
“We have been playing for almost two years and each week we try to mix up the teams to make it as even as possible,” said Miles Downard of Singular Systems.
He added that the local company has shown a lot of interest in soccer, and employees of all skill levels come to play.
Lihle Zitumane shapes to shoot after dribbling around the goalkeeper, who is also his work colleague. Photo: Nicholas Zaal
“It is a type of team building where we can get together in a social atmosphere.”
Of course, being able to dribble the ball around your work superior might be one reason so many companies like the format.
Lihle Zitumane, also of Singular Systems, said the pitches were always in good condition, and he and his colleagues sometimes enjoyed a drink at the bar after a game on the weekend.
For sports club manager, Mandy Labuschagne, all this means mission accomplished.
“Many companies are now focusing on the well-being of their employees,” she said.
Chadwin Chetty passes during a corporate soccer game. Photo: Nicholas Zaal
“Apart from giving you a good workout, 5-a-side soccer is great for building camaraderie, having fun and relieving stress.”
She encouraged anyone interested in playing soccer, as well as netball for that matter, to contact the club.
