Springbok women’s rugby team inspires local schoolgirls during training visit
With the support and admiration of a proud local community behind them, the Springbok women's rugby team departs for the Africa Cup.
The Redhill School grounds were abuzz with excitement as the Springbok women’s rugby team held a special training session on the school grounds ahead of their departure for the Africa Cup.
Franzel September, the team’s fourth coach, said, on June 2, that the facility has been amazing for their final sessions as they prepare for the cup. “Our hotel is nearby, and when we heard the fields were available, it was a perfect fit. Although our eyes are on the 2025 World Cup, this Africa Cup is our immediate focus.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth Springbok women’s rugby team at a special training session prior to their departure for the 2025 Africa Cup. springbokwomen rugby africacup #fyp
♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North – Caxton Joburg North
Also read: Redhill School’s historic Aitken Cup hockey win
September also took the opportunity to encourage the growth of women’s rugby in schools. “It is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. If schools can play their part, by introducing rugby to girls, we can build a strong future. It starts right here, in communities like Springs.”
Hosting the Springbok women’s team was a proud moment for the school. Patrick Ross-Allen, coach of the Rugby team at Redhill School, said: “It is a great honour to have a national side training here.”
Read more: Community backs charity sports tournament
He added that it is such an eye-opener for the younger girls, to see the national athletes training right in their backyard, and that the school has already begun laying the groundwork for growing the women’s game. “We currently have a touch rugby side, with a few girls who have achieved amazing things. Two have even played at the national level, while others are representing Gauteng at the IPTs. We are incredibly proud of them.”
With plans to transition from touch rugby to contact rugby in the near future, the visit from the Springbok women has brought new energy and inspiration. “Starting with touch rugby is a brilliant way to introduce the sport. We hope this is just the beginning.”
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
