UNITY FUELS SPRINGBOK WOMEN AMBITIONS
The Springbok Women’s rugby team powerfully embodies Ubunye, the spirit of “togetherness” or “unity.”
As they circle up after each huddle, Ubunye’s call resonates, reinforcing their commitment to one another, shared goals, and pride in representing South Africa.
This spirit is evident not only in their on-field performance but also in their team ethos, where the call of duty, Ubunye, is heard after every team huddle.
It is more than just a rallying cry; it is a reminder of the bond that ties each player to the others, transcending individual ambition in favor of a collective strength that drives them forward.
The unity symbolized by Ubunye extends far beyond the rugby pitch. It is a rallying point for the team, signifying the strength that comes from their diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
“Our team is all about the spirit of Ubunye and the spirit of Ubuntu. We’re all about culture, we’re about ‘Umuntu Ngumuntu Ngabantu, I am because you are’. Most of us have been together for a while and we live by this,” said Springbok Women Hooker Lindelwa Gwala.
“We care about one another, genuinely, and the next person that comes into the group, they are coming into a group that has that (unity) and it’s very easy for them to buy in on what we have and I think that’s beautiful.”
For the Women Boks, the call of Ubunye is more than just a slogan but serves as both a declaration of unity and a reminder of their duty to inspire others.
It speaks to the team’s collective spirit and players’ responsibility as role models for the next generation, particularly young girls in South Africa, showing them that togetherness can overcome any challenge.
ONE TEAM, COLLECTIVE AMBITION
This year has been one for the books for a team looking to establish itself as a formidable force in women’s rugby.
The team successfully defended the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar earlier this year, securing qualification for the Rugby World Cup in England.
In addition to victories against Madagascar, Kenya, and Cameroon, the Springbok Women also picked up wins against the Barbarians, Spain, and Japan in Cape Town.
As the team now prepares for next year’s World Cup, the Springbok Women are aware of the impact of their participation in the tournament.
“We play to inspire the next girl or woman to pick up a rugby ball and I think this win and qualifying for the Rugby World Cup will mean so much to those who want to see the game grow,” said Springbok Women captain Nolusindiso Booi.
“We are on the big stage and belong there, so the next steps are important. We laid the foundation for the next phase and it is so exciting to be part of it. Credit to the players, but so much praise must go to the coaches who prepared us so well for this.”
The Bok Women have been grouped with Brazil, Italy, and France for the showpiece set for August 2025.
