FABI entered three volleyball teams in the University of Pretoria’s annual Spring Day celebration sports tournament held on Wednesday 23 September. As has become tradition, the University called on its staff and students to come out of their offices, labs and lecture halls and celebrate Spring in a day full of fun and friendly competition at the LC de Villiers Sports Campus.

The FABI teams, "Natural Selection", "Cranium Crushers" and the "FABI-lous Phantoms" were definitely the most cosmopolitan with 18 players representing nine countries from five continents taking on the opposition in a knock-out tournament.

This annual tournament is one of the most anticipated events on the University calendar. This year FABI had its eye on the finals, hoping to improve from their first season appearance in 2012 when they made it to the semi-finals.

The Cranium Crushers and FABI-lous Phantoms suffered early defeats, after narrowly loosing their games. Team Natural Selection managed to advance through to the second round after a close 15-13 victory over their opponents. Natural Selection went on to win their second round game 18-6 to advance to the semi-finals where they met Plant Sciences. After a gruelling 10 minute clash, Natural Selection lost the battle with a score of 17-13.

Despite the results, the teams came together and showed true character in the face of tough opposition. Team FABI now look to build on this season’s achievement and bring home the trophy in 2016! Thank you to all the players that showed great spirit and team work, we are all proud of your achievement!

Congratulations to all the FABI teams:

Natural Selection: Tuan Dong, Redzuan Rauf, Darryl Herron, Andi Wilson, Mohammad Sayari and Alex Osorio

Cranium Crushers: Alistair Mctaggart, Louise Sheuy, Madelein van Heerden, Martha Mahlangu and Joey Hulbert (special sub: Morné Booij-Liewes)

FABI-lous Phantoms: Conrad Trollip, Daniela Cares, DongHyeon Lee, Danielle Roodt, Deon de Jager and Marc Bouwer