Tiarisha Maritz (19) from Reiger Park flew Boksburg’s flag when she was chosen recently to be part of the Junior Springbok Women’s squad.
Maritz started a rosy future in sport at the age of eight at Lakeside Primary School. She excelled in track and field and cross-country.
At 10, she participated in the SA cross-country championships, where she finished in the top ten.
Maritz started playing rugby in Grade Seven and developed a fondness for the oval ball.
The former Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen learner represented the Valke Rugby Union in the Cravenweek for women over her last two years of high school
.This year, she joined the TuksRugby Club.
She excelled in the U20 trials and made the provincial Blue Bulls women’s team in the left-wing position.
The talented rugby player said she is thrilled and honoured to be selected as a junior Springbok rugby player.
“It is a dream come true and I am still trying to process the excitement. Being part of the national team is a massive privilege, and I feel proud to represent my country, family, and community.
“The opportunity to wear the iconic green and gold jersey is a huge responsibility, and I am eager to make the most of it,” said Maritz.
She said she is aware of the high standards and expectations that come with representing South Africa.
“I am committed to hard work, learning from my teammates, and giving my all to contribute to the team’s success.
“This selection is not just a recognition of my efforts, but a testament to the dedication and passion of everyone who has helped me along the way.
“I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and ready to give it my all and make South Africa proud,” she added.
Maritz thanks her coaches, teammates, and family for their unwavering support and guidance throughout my rugby journey.
“Their belief in me was instrumental in helping me reach this milestone,” she said.
Lavern Maritz, mother and single parent, is the driving force behind Tiarisha’s performance in her sports career.
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