Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Vuvuzela controversy...



Yup, even our dogs have been affected by Soccer World Cup fevah! These two are keeping warm in their national colours.

Initially the vuvuzela was a huge point of controversy with wide debate about whether it should be banned at the World Cup stadiums. But half way through the tournament they are now an accepted part of the African experience.

I personally attended a Bafana Bafana match with some trepidation and earplugs at the ready. Instead it was an unforgettable experience. There is nothing quite like the vibrating energy generated by thousands of vuvuzelas. As one of of our players put it "We could feel the wind of your lungs supporting us". In fact it is quite liberating to be able to scream invective at the opposition and the referee knowing that no one can really hear what you say. Otherwise I would have been red carded out of the stadium!

So far it has been a Soccer World Cup of upsets and surprises, despair and elation. At first many (including players) complained that the cacophony was undermining their concentration during the game. Strangely, I have not noticed complaints from the winning teams. There is no doubt in my mind that the vuvuzela has added something different and special to this event. Vuvuzelas are fast becoming a South African national sporting symbol and being exported just as fast around the world. Nor can manufacturers meet the demand fast enough (much of which is from foreign fans). Mark my words, the vuvuzela will start appearing in other stadiums around the globe.

I did have a chuckle when I heard that the the white haired dons of Wimbledon have issued an edict banning the vuvuzela from the tournament. Ah well, Wimbledon would not be Wimbledon if it was not restrained and ever so polite.
My attitude has changed about the vuvuzela complainers. Either put up or shut up! This is Africa, get used to it!

2 comments:

  1. Interesting blog - don't you have a followers section?

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  2. Thanks Liz. I feel that if people read the blog, great! Why do you feel a followers section is necessary?

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