Diski dance unites colleagues and scholars

By
Lisa Moore
Posted in: The impact…, Videos and sounds, … on people, … on the country

South Africa’s unique, rhythmic Diski dance has taken the country by storm.

“Diski” is a South African township slang word for ‘football’, and this jive translates choreographed soccer moves into a dance. This dance has been designed in order for local fans and supporters to feel the rhythm of African soccer, and the energy and passion of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It was featured in a television advert from South African Tourism, which aired on global channels such as CNN, BBC, Eurosport and Skysport; aimed at generating excitement at home and abroad, ahead of the kickoff of this prestigious sporting event. It has also been taught at various school and church events in and around South Africa, in order to encourage younger people to become more enthusiastic about the soccer.

According to Sharné Finn, 25, of Trigga Hip Hop Crew (part of DancEnigma), based in Port Elizabeth, they have been teaching the Diski Dance at various corporate events. “Most companies have used this opportunity as a team-building event”, says Sharné. “Among the corporates, we’ve spent time teaching various travel agents and hotel staff. This was all to add to the ‘GEES’ [spirit] of the FIFA World Cup”.

Called the ‘soccer dance’, all the moves in the Diski are based on the way South Africans play soccer. “It’s fun, showy and never boring”, Sharné says. “The catchphrase and number one rule of the dance is to always ‘keep your eye on the Diski!’ I feel that the dance has been a fun way to stir up excitement for the World Cup. It’s something new, trendy and fresh which everyone can learn and enjoy.”

Sharné also has found that in their teaching, it’s been an amazing way to unite coworkers. “People enjoy it”, states Sharné. “It boosts confidence, inspires and provokes much laughter. Nothing brings people together more than laughter and shared experiences. Learning the Diski dance is a lovely experience to share with others.”

Just in case you were wondering how the dance goes, follow the five simple steps below, and then you’ll be right on your way to feeling the rhythm and being a part of the true South African soccer spirit. Don your fan gear, and become sucked into the contagious passion of this exciting World Cup fever! You are also welcome to be creative by adding your own moves and making up your own routines:

1. The Juggle – known as “teka” in South African township lingo, this move involves you juggling the soccer ball from your left foot to your right foot and then back again.
2. The Header – bounce the ball on your head.
3. The Table Mountain – position yourself bent over with your back flat (like a table). Keep the ball behind your back.
4. The Trepa – flick the ball from behind your neck over your head, and then hold it on your foot. Kick the ball twice with your right foot.
5. The Bridge – known as “brija” in local speak, this involves passing the ball over with your right foot, over your left foot, and then back again. Repeat this action four times. The dance ends with kicking the ball into the back of the net.

A simpler version of the dance:

1. Lift up the ball
2. Use your head!
3. Make your back flat
4. Release, hold and kick the ball
5. Skip over and then pass the ball to somebody else.

VIDEO – Diski Dance – South African Tourism Advert

Sources:

Sharné Finn (article and image)

http://www.footballfridays.co.za/the-diski-dance

http://www.southafrica.info/footballfridays/diski-dance2.htm

http://www.southafrica.info/video/diski-dance1.htm

Tags: ,

About the Author