Laughter, song, and the sound of cheering carried through the breeze as the 2025 University Staff Sport and Wellness of South Africa (USSWSA) national tournament kicked off in Gqeberha this past weekend. The weather kept everyone guessing, cloudy one moment and sunny the next, but the energy on the fields was bright and full of excitement from start to finish.

Hosted by the picturesque Nelson Mandela University, the tournament took place on a campus built within a nature reserve, surrounded by tall green trees and lush open spaces that created a peaceful yet energising setting. It was the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with sport, laughter, and connection as 16 universities from across South Africa came together to compete and celebrate the joy of being active.

For the North-West University (NWU) Staff Sports Club – Potchefstroom Campus, the tournament was a memorable first. Welcomed warmly by fellow participants, the team’s purple colours stood out beautifully against the sea of green that surrounded the fields. Between matches, the air was alive with singing, dancing, and friendly chants, as staff-from different universities came together in moments that perfectly captured the spirit of unity and fun.

On the field and court, the NWU team gave it their all. The soccer team impressed with their skill and determination, advancing to the quarterfinals after a series of spirited matches. The netball and super pool teams also delivered strong performances, playing with heart and teamwork that reflected the club’s passion and growing confidence.

Organisers praised all participants for embracing the values of wellness, unity, and friendly competition, the very essence of the USSWSA games.

As the sun dipped over Gqeberha and the weekend ended, the NWU Potchefstroom Staff Sports Club could look back with pride on their debut. They brought energy, talent, and unmistakable purple pride to the national stage and left their mark on one of South Africa’s most beautiful and naturally rich university campuses.

The purple wave has arrived, and it’s only the beginning.