Vryburger High starts rugby team for girls
“We only have one team, the first team. We are looking for more leaners to join us and grow into more divisions.
The women’s rugby team at Hoërskool Vryburger High School is setting new standards in the sport thanks to their determination and love for it.
These gifted teenage athletes are redefining what is possible for women’s rugby in their community by aiming for success.
Speaking to the team coach, Angelo Lete and two of his players, the team is breaking boundaries and setting new rules.
ALSO READ: Germiston Simmer Rugby recruits young blood
While many boardrooms have discussed the inclusion of women in sports like rugby, Vryburger High is pushing beyond the norm.
Lete said the team used to play touch rugby and recently migrated to contact rugby.
“The girls love it, and they have grit and intensity. We played two games with one loss and one win.
“There is progress; the girls bring themselves to training and help each other understand the game. I teach them to watch rugby matches and highlights on streaming platforms to familiarise themselves with the sport.
Lete is a former learner at the school who also played rugby for the school team.
ALSO READ: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4
He said that with his little knowledge, he can share that with the girls.
“The vision is to give them basic skills to help them when they want to go professional and take it to another level,” said Lete.
As members of the representative council of learners (RCL), Asanda Nyuswa and Hope Rapelang not only perform in rugby but also set an example for others by serving on the committees for marketing, and fundraising and sports.
Rapelang, who aspires to pursue a career in the military, competes in rugby and soccer.
“I love sports, and rugby has that exciting violence in it. Since we started playing contact rugby, we have found it more exciting.
ALSO READ: Thrilling U16 clashes to close out 2025 St John’s Easter Rugby Festival
“We only have one team, the first team. We want more learners to join us and grow into more divisions.
“Our legacy is to lay the ground for those after us. The school has a rich background of rugby, and we want to pave the way for more girls,” said Rapelang.
The boy’s rugby first team inspired Nyuswa, a member of the RCL sports committee, to take up the sport.
“Rugby is just as thrilling as hockey, which I also play. This year, our school hosted several sporting events.
“We want to grow and win, inspire and feel proud of ourselves. Winning is addictive,” said Nyuswa.
“I wish to attend a culinary school after matric.”
