Former two-time South African Ladies Indoor Cricket World Cup winner, Talita Wiegand aims to inspire her learners to go after their dreams.
Wiegand, who discovered her love for indoor cricket by accident, captained her team to victory on two occasions.
She is currently a sports coordinator and life orientation teacher for grades 8 to 12 at Crawford College Sandton. “I grew up in a very sporty household, supporting rugby and cricket was part of my upbringing,” she said, recalling her childhood in Pietersburg, Polokwane.
She has always been a lover of sport, not particularly just cricket. “Sport, sport and more sport. I played club hockey, provincial softball in South Africa and in New Zealand, and represented South Africa in touch rugby for ladies and mixed [both men and women].”
But each experience was always so special for Wiegand which is why, as a teacher; she aims to cultivate critical thinking in all of her learners. “Always explore the other side of the coin. Showcasing creativity and empathy within each individual which in turn will grow a holistic student.”
She encouraged all aspiring athletes, boys and girls, to continue working towards their goals and not let any obstacles get in their way. “Every bad thing that happens is a stepping stone to something better.
“I love sport in general and tried everything, I enjoyed spending the time outside, training with my friends and getting to know new people. It didn’t always go as planned and the heartache crossed my path too but finding my passion and drive in sport meant that I didn’t have to be bound by gender stereotypes.
“I found friendship, camaraderie and life lessons in this sport over the years and that is what I hold on to.”
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