Former Nkowankowa rugby player signs with Bulls Daisies
Vanessa Gabadi says joining the Isuzu Bulls Daisies is a dream come true after representing South Africa at Springbok u/20 level and impressing at the Pretoria-based club.
LIMPOPO – It has been a remarkable year for former Nkowankowa rugby player Vanessa Gabadi, who has signed her first professional contract with the Isuzu Bulls Daisies.
Gabadi joined the team earlier this year and officially signed her contract in September.
Speaking to the Herald, the 19-year-old said signing the contract was a special moment.
“I feel very honoured because this is the first professional team I have played for.
“I’m definitely looking forward to where this journey takes me,” she said.
The former Hudson Ntsanwisi High School learner, who hails from Mokgolobotho, has made significant strides in rugby, raising the profile of Limpopo on the national stage.
Springbok journey opens doors
Earlier this year, Gabadi was invited to attend two prestigious rugby camps. She first joined the Springbok u/20 camp in Stellenbosch, where her performances earned her selection to represent South Africa against the United States in Cape Town.
She described her Springbok call-up as both humbling and a great honour. Her hard work and dedication also earned her a place at the Bulls Daisies camp at the University of Pretoria’s Tuks campus in June, where she again impressed the coaches. In August, Gabadi represented the Springbok u/20 team in Brazil.
Although South Africa lost both matches against the hosts, she described the opportunity to represent her country internationally as a dream come true.
It was also her first trip outside South Africa, making the experience even more memorable.
Eyes on the future
Looking ahead, Gabadi is determined to continue developing her game.
“My focus is to keep improving my skills, fitness, strength, and understanding of the game. I want to become a more consistent and disciplined player who contributes positively to the team, both on and off the field.
“I’m also focused on learning from every opportunity, building my confidence and challenging myself to reach a higher level of rugby. My ultimate goal is to continue growing as a player, represent my country with pride and make the most of every opportunity I get,” she said.
