Rising rugby star to play for Sharks youth team
Risima Koza, a Grade 11 learner at Mowat Park High School was selected to be part of the U16 provincial team and will have the opportunity to participate in an interprovincial tour in Gauteng, from July 10 to 13.
DEALING with the stress of school and examinations can often take a toll on a learner, but for 16-year-old, Risima Koza, playing rugby has been a great stress reliever and even opened new doors.
The grade 11 learner at Mowat Park High School, was selected for the Sharks U16 provincial team and is set to participate in an inter-provincial tour in Gauteng, from July 10 to 13.
Risima, who plays for her school’s U16 team and is a prop, said she was selected last year for the Sharks youth team.
“I had participated with my school team in the eThekwini district tournament and they had selected high-performance players that would get to be part of the team. When I was informed that I had been selected I was quite overwhelmed. I am nervous, but also very happy and excited,” she said.
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Risima, said her passion for the team sport developed when it was introduced to the school in 2022.
“I had not played rugby before, but I would watch it on TV. I decided to challenge myself and see what my body and I, as a person, was capable of. As soon as I got onto the field, I loved it and instantly knew I was meant to play this sport.
“It also has some great benefits. When I am out on the field I am able to release all of my stress and tension. I feel good and much more relaxed after a training session or match,” she said.
Risima said she is inspired by Springboks player, Cheslin Kolbe.
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“I am motivated to do my best especially after watching him out on the field, the manner in which he runs and his tackles. I have learnt so much just by watching him,” she said.
She added that her goal was to play professionally and join The Cell C Sharks women’s team.
“Hopefully I will also get the opportunity to play for the provincial team and maybe later on for the Springbok women’s team,” she said.
Risima said she encouraged the youth to participate in sports.
“It is a great stress reliever, allows you the opportunity to visit new places and meet different people. It can also potentially open new doors for you in the future,” she said.
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