By Amogelang Aysha Ramatena
In a heartwarming celebration of Nelson Mandela Day, Tshwane University of Technology’s Sports and Recreation, Transformation Employment Equity and Diversity (TEED), Corporate Affairs and Marketing (CAM) and Alumni Relations hosted a community-focused soccer day at Shaka Sports Ground in Soshanguve. The event wasn’t just about the game, it was about unity, respect and appreciation.
Staff, students and alumni teamed up with two spirited local groups, the Soshanguve Gogos and the Sir Duncan football team, for a series of friendly matches that filled the day with energy, laughter and camaraderie. The initiative aimed to promote community engagement, sportsmanship and a sense of mutual support across generations.
LtR: The Soshanguve Gogos and the Sir Duncan football team.
Shalate Davhana, Manager of Alumni Relations and Fundraising, reflected on the deeper meaning behind the event: “We are here to strengthen the bond between TUT and the Soshanguve community,” she said. “With nearly 18 000 of our students calling this township home, the community has consistently stepped in with care. It is important for us to honour and appreciate that.”
The matches delivered plenty of fun and friendly rivalry. The Soshanguve Campus staff and alumni men's team defeated their Ga-Rankuwa counterparts in an exciting match. The Soshanguve Gogos went head-to-head with the Sir Duncan elderly team and secured another win. In the final face-off, the victorious Gogos took on TUT’s female staff and alumni, who clinched the last victory with a 3–0 score.
Coach Thabiso Sonakele of the Soshanguve Gogos expressed pride in his team’s performance and praised the event for bridging the gap between young people and the elderly through sport. “It was a beautiful initiative,” he said. “Our win reflects the effort we have put in. I hope our energy inspires young athletes to stay motivated.”
Coach Lucas Mosaka from the Sir Duncan team echoed these sentiments. He thanked TUT for the warm welcome and said the experience brought genuine happiness to his players. He also expressed hope that such events would continue to build strong relationships between the University and local communities.
In a light-hearted reflection on the day, Nkoka Legodi, coach of the TUT Legends Ladies and Deputy Director at CAM, said: “We expected to beat the Gogos, but were pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere and sense of community went far beyond our expectations. It was pure joy.”
Jimmy Mafatshe Ntine, Chairperson of the NEHAWU Soshanguve Branch, also commended the event: “It was wonderful to see staff participating in meaningful community outreach. We hope this initiative grows even bigger next year.”
The success of the Mandela Day celebration was made possible through the collaborative efforts of internal stakeholders, including NEHAWU branches from Ga-Rankuwa and Soshanguve, Building and Estates as well as Facility Management. Special thanks also go to the sponsors - SADAG, Old Mutual, Liberty Life, Tseba Africa, Mc Gloria and Zamaphuti Publishers -whose contributions enriched the experience by offering valuable insights into physical, mental and overall well-being, with a special focus on elderly care.
The Ga-Rankuwa men's staff team.
The TUT female staff team participating in Mandela Day.
The Soshanguve staff men's team