A rising women’s rugby star

Danel Schutte (20) from Welkom is one of the Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute’s rising stars.
She joined the institute in 2022 and played her first Valke match recently
• When did the rugby bug bite you?
It was in high school when I realised that rugby may have better prospects for me than netball. As soon as I started playing I felt that I found what I was good at. It was the perfect fit for me. I was no longer playing sport just to fit in, but I was doing something that I was passionate about.
• Why did you feel like you have a better future in rugby?
I just knew that I wanted to do better in this sport. And I saw that there were many opportunities as women’s rugby grows in the country even though I know that the boys still get more opportunities than us. Basically we have a shorter period to master all our skills for professional rugby.

Also read: Springs Rugby Club punish NWU

• What have been the highlights of your career?
Making provincial teams when I least expected it. I was selected for the Northern Free State Griffons last year. And to be on the starting lineup for the Valke on Saturday was a dream come true.
• How do you stay motivated to keep pursuing your dreams in your favourite sport?
I just remind myself that I am my own competition. I am not playing against the other players and not being intimidated or influenced by what others are doing on the field. I want to do my best each time and be better than the last time.
• What are your short-term goals?
I just want to grow and be better in the sport. I just want to play more, because that is how we get better at it.
• How has being part of GWRI helped you become a better rugby player?
When I am here, I train every weekday. Whereas if I was at home, I would only be training on the weekend. And I think being here with so many other talented players makes me want to push even more and be the best of the best.

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