SLINDILE Bekwa (28), the captain of the Harlequins women’s rugby team, is continuing to make waves for local women’s rugby as she has now been included in the Sharks women’s rugby squad.

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Bekwa was born and raised in the village of Ncakubana between Ixopo and uMzimkhulu. She said her journey into rugby began thanks to her brother.

“My brother played for the Blue Whales team in Clermont. In 2016, his coach was looking for girls to join the team, and I seized the opportunity. I’m forever grateful to Ndunduzo Mchunu, who patiently taught me the fundamentals of rugby, from passing to catching the ball. His guidance laid the foundation for my rugby journey,” said Bekwa.

Before rugby, Bekwa was already an active sportswoman and played netball during primary school and volleyball throughout high school.

“Those experiences built my athletic foundation and ultimately led me to discover my passion for rugby,” she added. Bekwa shared that she started her rugby career as a hooker with the Blue Whales, later played as a prop for the UKZN team, and has been a number eight for Harlequins. Now with the Sharks, she said she will be returning to the prop position.

The life-changing call came during a regular workday.

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“I remember it like it was yesterday. It was around 09:00 when I received the call that would change everything. I was invited to come for training with the Sharks women’s team. I was overwhelmed with excitement and mixed emotions,” Bekwa recounted.

With the Sharks, she wants to perfect her skills, have more playing time and improve her leadership skills. “My goal is to help the team win championships and build a strong team culture. Ultimately, I dream of representing the South African national women’s rugby team, competing in the Rugby World Cup and becoming a professional player,” she said.

Bekwa said while her goals keep her motivated, one of her biggest inspirations is New Zealand rugby star Portia Woodman. “I admire her incredible speed, skill, and determination on the field. Her passion for rugby and her achievements inspires me to push myself harder, stay focused, and strive for excellence in my own rugby journey,” said Bekwa.

Speaking to all the young girls and women who are motivated and want to pursue rugby, Bekwa said you should never let your background define you.

“I come from a small village in KwaZulu-Natal, but I’ve never let that limit my dreams. Rugby has taught me that with hard work, determination, and resilience, I can achieve anything. So, I urge you to be unstoppable, to chase your passions, and to never give up on your goals,” she said.

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