For years, the Springbok Women fought for recognition on rugby’s biggest stage. Now, under the steady leadership of Nolusindiso Booi, they’ve made history — securing South Africa’s first-ever spot in a Rugby World Cup quarter-final.
Breaking Barriers in Women’s Rugby
Since their debut in 2006, the Bok Women have battled through five World Cups without breaking into the top eight. This year, everything changed. Back-to-back victories — a 66-6 demolition of Brazil and a nail-biting 29-24 triumph over Italy — sealed their place at the top of Pool D with 10 points.
For Booi, who has been at the heart of women’s rugby in South Africa for over a decade, the moment is about more than just results. Speaking after the historic win, she shared her pride in both the team’s growth and the support they’ve felt from home and abroad.
“I am happy to be part of history makers,” she said. “It was amazing to see so many South Africans in the stands. We’ve grown so much as a team, and we’re finally showing the world what we can do.”
Building Momentum
Booi credits their success to belief, discipline, and unity. “The coaches have helped us to believe in ourselves. We’ve stuck to the game plan and played as one,” she explained. “This is also for the players who paved the way. It took a long time to get here.”
Her words echo the wider story of South African women’s rugby: a journey marked by resilience, persistence, and the hunger to be taken seriously on the global stage.
A Nation Watching
The achievement has sparked waves of pride across South Africa. Social media platforms lit up after the Italy victory, with fans calling the team “trailblazers” and “true ambassadors” of the sport. For many young girls watching from schools and township rugby clubs, the Bok Women’s success signals that their rugby dreams are possible too.
Next Stop: France
The Springbok Women are not done yet. Their final Pool D match against France in Northampton will be another test, and Booi is clear that the team wants to keep the momentum rolling.
“In the past it would be tough to get even one pool win,” she reflected. “Now we’re heading into the quarter-finals. We want to keep pushing forward.”
Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: Nolusindiso Booi and her teammates have already etched their names into South African rugby history.
Image Source: GSports for Girls on X
