Three women’s rugby players of Pirates Rugby Club can boast their appointment in top coaching positions ahead of South Africa’s biggest junior tournament.
Craven Week is coming up in June and Bongiwe Nhleko, Simone Wilson and Piwokuhle Nyanda will spearhead the Lions’ campaign for trophies in the U16 and U18 girls teams.
Nhleko, who has been made team manager for the U18 side, hopes to fulfil more than just an administrative role.
“I want to empower the young girls I work with,” she said. “I want to spend time with them and get to know them, know their aspirations after school, and encourage them.”
Wilson and Nyanda, who are backline coaches for the U18 and U16 sides respectively, also stressed the importance of empowering those in their charge to reach their full potential.
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Typical of backline coaches, they both also hope to develop entertaining, running rugby in their sides.
“I have worked with the squad already and can say they are amazing girls, who are talented and fun to work with,” said Nyanda. “I have watched them play in the school league and it is great seeing them come of age.”
The three women play for the Pirates women’s team in the Jozi Women’s Rugby League, although Nyanda has injured her hand and will be out of action for a while.
Pirates has played six games this season, including three friendlies and three league games, and remains undefeated.
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