UL girl’s rugby team wants to be recognised nationally and internationally
The University of Limpopo's (UL) rugby team has worked hard to gain the recognition they deserve.
POLOKWANE – The team have tested their skills against the Universities of Pretoria, North West Potchefstroom Campus, Johannesburg, Free State, Wits and Rhodes.
Ranked fourth on the University Sports South Africa’s log, coach Kobus Redelinghuys describes the girls as well behaved, disciplined and committed, and he says he is proud to see them reach their goals. Speaking on his role as coach, Redelinghuys told BONUS that he has had to make sure that the team trusts him completely and that they know when not to cross the line.
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The team has been playing since 2012 and captain, Valentine Manyosa says their goal was to be recognised nationally, and to absorb as many women as possible into the team to show them that rubgy is actually a fun sport. “Through rugby, you are able to make great friends, who eventually turn into family and we are respected by our male counterparts as well. We hope to produce more provincial and national players who are also educated and respectful,” Manyosa said.
She says that the game has taught the team patience, resistance and resilience as well as responsibility, and that it is a wonderful experience. Manyosa added that her responsibilities as captain include making sure that everything runs smoothly, adding that is hard and challenging, but also a blessing. “Not everyone in the team is going to like or listen to you, but you just have to try not to pay too much attention to the negative things happening around you, and just concentrate on your duties,” she said.
Redelinghuys says although they are eager to get back on to the field, they are awaiting the go-ahead from the South African Rugby Union, as professional teams are only permitted to practice for now.
