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The Frances Baard female rugby team recently made waves in the Griqualand West Female Rugby Tournament played in Calvinia.
Head coach Claudia Francke had worked tirelessly with her team, instilling in them a sense of determination and unity that was noticable during the tournament, which took place on 20 April.
The team’s first match was against the formidable Logan Rugby Region, a tough and seasoned opponent. Despite a valiant effort, Frances Baard fell short and lost by 7 – 14. However, they refused to be disheartened and used this defeat as fuel to drive them forward.
Their next match was against the Pixley Rugby Region, known for their speed and agility. Led by the inspirational performances of Chrystal Francis, Rose Pepeteni, Jean-Mari Owies, Evelyn Matli, Queenitah La Meyer, Lerato Mudlovu, Abigail Brand, Malwandla Maswanganyi, Jennilee Van Nel, Bronwen Basson, and other team members, Frances Baard put on a stellar performance, with four crucial tries being scored in the game.
The Frances Baard team proved to be formidable opponents in this match. Despite their best efforts, Pixley struggled to contain the relentless attacks from Frances Baard, who emerged victorious, with key players like Brand scoring two tries, and Van Nel converting flawlessly, further solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Van Nel’s precise kicking saw them convert try after try, leading them to a victory of 27 – 5.
The following match, against Namakwaland, was a closely contested battle, with both teams giving it their all. Despite a strong showing from Frances Baard, Namakwaland emerged victorious with a narrow 10 – 5 win.
As the tournament came to a close, the Frances Baard female team stood tall, proud of their achievements and the unity they had forged throughout the competition.
Francke’s leadership, together with the entire management and assistant coaches Daniel Melaat and Rodirique January, had been instrumental in their success, guiding them through victory and defeat with grace and determination.
– Romeo Syfers, chairperson of the Frances Baard Rugby Region
