After only starting her rugby career in 2021, the Leopards Women’s rugby centre, Jacomien “Jakkie” Cilliers, has achieved one of the highest honours with an invite to the Springbok women’s rugby team for a World Cup preparatory camp from 6-20 August in Stellenbosch.
Cilliers has been a revelation this season for the Leopards, but her inclusion into the national set-up caught her by surprise especially as her career is only in its infancy. “I received the message that I was called up to the training squad and that had me in disbelief. It was surprising, but I am really thankful and can’t wait for the opportunity,” says Cilliers, who grew up in a rugby loving family.
Cilliers has always been a sporty individual and played netball for the NWU, before swapping the round ball for an oval one. “In school I played touch rugby with the boys, but I didn’t take up rugby until Jackie Kriel (former SA women’s rugby player and past of Leopards Women management) asked me to join the squad. In the beginning the physicality was something different and something completely new, but I enjoyed it,” exclaims Cilliers.
Cilliers plays inside and outside centre for the Leopards and is also the designated kicker for the team. The coaching staff saw her potential and she believes that their support has played a big role in her Springbok selection.
“My coaches told me that they thought that I would be playing for bigger teams and that I could go far in the game of rugby. They really motivate me and I am thankful for my team mates as well who I couldn’t have done it without.”
Henriette Pretorius, Liaisons Officer Leopards Rugby Union and Chairperson PDWrugby also gave her thoughts on the rise of Cilliers in the past couple of months.
“I met her as a shy, humble lady, down to earth big-hearted person. Willing to help, willing to learn, willing to be taught, willing to put in extra effort. What an honor to have her represent not only her province at a Leopard but also her club; as a proud Potch Dorp Women’s player. She set the standard that if you dream it you can achieve it. Go make your mark, and make us proud,” she stated.
The Leopards Rugby Union vice-president, Vernoreen Roems, also showered Cilliers with praise after a superb entry to the sport.
“I am very excited as the vice-president that women’s rugby is one of the highest priorities for the Leopards Rugby Union. Despite the challenges that we face due to Covid-19 my management team did a phenomenal job with the team on of 2021.
Jacomien Cilliers or Jakkie as her team-mates know her, started her professional rugby career this year and from the time she started playing I knew she was something special. She plays the most courageous rugby I have seen from an individual in a very long time. Her ambition to the game and self-belief is admired both by her teammates and management. I am extremely excited to see her play in the green and gold.”
Roems also thanked everyone who supported the Leopards women’s rugby team in 2021 and mentioned that she is extremely excited for next season in the hope that the union can produce even more Springboks.
