Young sensation takes women’s rugby by storm

In a sport dominated by men, Jané Mulder (19) is breaking barriers and making a name for herself in rugby.

Despite starting her rugby career in Grade 12, Jané has risen through the ranks, earning a spot in the Junior Springboks and proving that determination and hard work can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Mulder’s rugby passion sparked while growing up in Alberton, but opportunities were scarce. That was until she joined the Wits rugby women’s team next to her school, Helpmekaar College.

Mulder joined the team last March, and her team blossomed just after playing three games.

However, injuries, including two broken collarbones, marred her debut season. Undeterred, Mulder persevered, and her resilience paid off.

After healing from her second injury, she made a selection for the Lions senior team. After the season ended, she was selected to play in the Golden Lions U20 tournament at Queens High School.

“She competed in the nationals with teams from the nine provinces,” said her father and former Springbok player, Japie Mulder.

This exposure led to her selection for the 28-player Junior Springbok Women’s U20 squad.

Mulder said this was when she knew she had reached a significant breakthrough in her rugby career.

After the Junior Springboks squad was announced, Mulder had to travel to Stellenbosch for a training camp in preparation for the international R10 African U20 Women’s Series held from September 30 to October 8.

She recalls the excitement and nerves when she prepared to take on Uganda, Tunisia and the San Clemente Rhinos in the international series at Paul Roos Gymnasium’s Markötter Stadium in Stellenbosch.

“We won every match. It was a proud moment for me,” said Mulder.

However, she faced a new challenge – adapting to a new position. Typically a wing player, she was tasked with playing number 15.

“I wasn’t quite sure what was expected of me in that position,” she admits.

However, Mulder’s willingness to learn and adapt has been a hallmark of her journey.

Rugby is more than just a sport to Mulder; it is a family legacy. Japie was a Springbok player until 2001, and her brothers are all involved in the sport. They all played for the Lions U12 and U13 teams at the school level, with one currently in the Natal U15 squad.

She thanks her parents for their steadfast support.

“It took time for me to get my driver’s license. My parents had to drive me to my training sessions daily. They are very supportive.”

After completing Grade 12, Mulder took a gap year to discover her academic passions. Next year, she will pursue a degree in sports science.