A woman in blue scrubs looks the soccer ball she just kicked on the lawn, as Wellness Director Julie Griffith watches, and other UTMB personnel stand nearby.

Our UTMB Community Kicks Into Action

Inspired by the excitement and energy of the world’s biggest soccer traditions, members of the UTMB community came together to “Get in the Game” with the Academic Enterprise Office of Wellness. Faculty, staff, and students took on soccer-themed challenges while connecting with colleagues and classmates. Events like these help build community, encourage movement, and support well-being across our campus. Check out photos from the event.

We would like to congratulate our winners, who had fun, battled the heat, and took home the trophy! 

Winner Thang Nguyen-Tien holds a trophy in his right hand and a soccer ball in his left

Our faculty/staff winner is Thang Nguyen-Tien, PhD, MPH, a post-doctoral fellow researcher in the Infectious Disease Division of the Department of Internal Medicine. When Thang’s not working on research, he has a strong passion for soccer and enjoys playing futsal regularly with colleagues at the UTMB Alumni Field House. He also served as a referee for two UTMB intramural outdoor soccer seasons. In addition to soccer, he enjoys swimming, reading, and playing chess board in his spare time, which helps him maintain a healthy work–life balance.

Winner Lauren Gansereit holds a trophy in her right hand and a soccer ball in her left

Our student winner is Lauren Gansereit, a graduate student and PhD Candidate in the Biochemistry Department in the Li-av Segev Zarko Lab. When Lauren’s not working towards her PhD, she enjoys experiencing Galveston festivities and food, hanging out with her community group, and going to the UTMB Alumni Field House.