NEWCASTLE KZN: Sibahle Anele Hlatshwayo outpaces the rugby stereotypes
Hlatshwayo says that when the opportunity to play girls' rugby came, she grabbed it with both hands.
At first glance, Sibahle Anele Hlatshwayo (23) seems to be a regular young woman.
When her hands are grasped upon a rugby ball however, her sweet smile vanishes and is replaced by a look of utter determination, as she dashes from one end of the field and aims to cross the whitewash for a try.
Hlatshwayo’s dream is to play for the Mpumalanga-based Pumas.
She learned from a young age that she was unlike most of the other girls in her class, who were more concerned with dolls and the latest fashion trends, while her heart yearned to be back on the sports field.
“I was into athletics at the time and was faster than the other girls. My coach and professors dubbed me ‘Habana’ as a result [after the legendary Springbok, Bryan Habana]. After that, I knew I wanted to play rugby. I knew I had a liking for rugby even before I started playing, since I used to go to boys’ games all the time. When the opportunity to play girls rugby at school arose, I jumped at the chance with both hands.”
Hlatshwayo journey with rugby began in 2013.
During her high school career, Hlatshwayo was named the best rugby player year after year, which led to an opportunity to play for the junior Blue Bulls, selection for the KwaZulu-Natal Youth Training Centre team which toured the Eastern Cape, and selection for the Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institution trials in hopes of earning a rugby scholarship.
“My ultimate goal is to represent the Pumas, but until then, I want to put in more effort and make a difference while also learning more about the sport,” she added.
Through pursuing her passion on the rugby field and demonstrating her physical capabilities, Hlatshwayo said the sport had taught her a variety of life skills, including self-discipline, communication, and teamwork.
Her rugby role model is – unsurprisingly – Bryan Habana.
“The reason is because he is the best at what he does, which demonstrates dedication and hard work.”
In conclusion, Hlatshwayo was proud to have younger girls looking up to her and many people wishing for her success, and is determined to live up to their expectations.
She also encourages more women to give rugby a try.
“I would encourage more women to enjoy the excitement of rugby. I would advise young girls to do their best, to put in long hours, and to be dedicated to their work. Discipline is the most important factor. Go out and look for help in the right places, according to the sport you are passionate about.”
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