Four talented girl pupils and their dedicated teacher from Zimasa Primary School, in Langa, made waves at national youth week rugby tournaments in Gauteng last month.
Ovayo Nqamrha, Zingce Lofani and Sinelizwi Rasmeni’s impressive skills secured their spots on the Western Cape Craven Week under-15 rugby team.
Meanwhile, Amyoli Aqhama Dalasile’s performance earned her a place on the under-16 Western Province team that took part in the Grant Khomo Girls’ Weeks, at Jeppe Boys’ High School.
Guiding these talented athletes is their Xhosa teacher, Nosipho Poswa, who was also selected as the coach for the under-16 Craven Week Western Province team.
Ms Poswa’s journey in rugby began at a young age, playing since her early days in Soweto-on-Sea, in Gqeberha.
She played for Vista University (now Nelson Mandela University) and the Eastern Cape rugby team. She then played for the University of the Western Cape, Western Province and Springbok women’s team as a hooker. Her expertise and passion for the sport have paved the way for the young athletes she mentors today.
“I was a part of the first ever Springbok women’s team in 2004. That is when UWC called me. I didn’t have matric so UWC helped me both in academics and in sport. I graduated in teaching and continued to play rugby,” she said.
Ms Poswa acknowledged that training with the pupils posed its challenges, especially due to the absence of a dedicated field at the school. However, she remains undeterred and determined to make the best of the situation. The team now trains either at the community stadium or in the schoolyard, making the most of the available space.
She holds a teaching diploma from UWC and a World Rugby Educator level 2 coaching certificate.
Over the years, Zimasa Primary School has gained a reputation for nurturing sporting and academic talents.
Just two years ago, one of their rugby stars, Sange Booi, received a scholarship to study at the SA College School (SACS) in Newlands.
For the young athletes, participating in the national championship was a dream come true. Their dedication, skill and teamwork were evident on the field as they proudly represented their province and school. Ms Poswa said they stand as symbols of what passion and perseverance can achieve.
“If it wasn’t for rugby I would be back at Soweto-on-Sea. But today I am able to say I was able to walk up on stage and hear people cheer my name when I received my qualifications. I usually say to the kids, ‘when they want to achieve something, no matter how your home looks, you have to be disciplined and certain about what you want to achieve.’ Discipline is what will keep you going,” said Ms Poswa.
