Unstoppable Females in Rugby: Thuto Rantso and Crystal Francis Shine!

In a remarkable stride towards gender equality and breaking barriers, the world of rugby celebrates a significant milestone this year as Thuto Rantso (19) and Crystal Francis (18) become the first female rugby players to join the prestigious UXi Rugby Institutes. Thuto and Crystal have already made waves in their local rugby scene, representing the Tempe Badgers Rugby Club in Bloemfontein. Their achievements not only reflect their individual talent and dedication but also underscore the unstoppable power of ladies’ rugby today.

Thuto and Crystal’s entry into the UXi Rugby Institutes represents a significant breakthrough for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Their courage and determination have challenged stereotypes and proven that talent knows no gender boundaries. As the first female players in UXi Griquas Rugby Institute, they have become trailblazers and aim to inspire young girls everywhere to follow their dreams and pursue their passion for rugby.

Thuto Rantso, with her exceptional skills and relentless drive, has left an indelible mark on the rugby community. Her unwavering commitment was showcased in a memorable club rugby match against the Colesberg Queens, where her talent as a formidable rugby player was on full display. Thuto’s outstanding performance earned her the well-deserved title of Player of the Match, solidifying her reputation as a rising star in women’s rugby. Thuto dreams of becoming a professional rugby player.

Crystal Francis, a new addition to the Tempe Badgers Rugby Club, has already made a significant impact with her speed, agility, and fierce determination on the field. Her passion for the sport is evident in every game she plays, earning her respect and admiration from teammates and opponents alike. Crystal’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the potential for greatness in women’s rugby. Crystal has big aspirations to become a Female Springbok Women’s Rugby player in the future.

As women’s rugby gains traction, more eyes are turning to the international rugby stage such as the Women Six Nations table, where teams from various nations compete fiercely for supremacy. The rise of female rugby in South Africa has been particularly notable, with the country boasting a thriving community and exciting fixtures, such as the SA Women rugby fixture against the famed Black Ferns of New Zealand. The record crowds that flock to witness women’s rugby matches are a testament to the growing popularity of the sport. From local fixtures to international tournaments like the Women Rugby World Cup, the attendance figures continue to soar. 

Cities like Cape Town have become hotspots for women’s rugby, attracting millions of spectators who are captivated by the skill, athleticism, and sheer passion displayed by female athletes. These record attendance figures reflect the increasing recognition and appreciation for women’s rugby, as more people embrace the sport and acknowledge the exceptional abilities of female players.

The impact of women’s rugby extends far beyond the playing field. It has become a movement that inspires and empowers women worldwide, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and challenge societal norms! Did you know that a staggering 58,498 total attendance was recorded at Twickenham, as spectators flocked in to witness an exhilarating clash between the England and France women’s rugby teams? This remarkable attendance shattered the previous record for the highest attended women’s rugby match, which stood at 42,579 and was set during the thrilling 2022 Rugby World Cup final held in New Zealand. The overwhelming turnout at Twickenham showcased the immense popularity and growing support for women’s rugby, solidifying its position as a captivating and influential sport on the global stage.

Women’s rugby tournaments have been a driving force behind the sport’s growth and increasing popularity around the world. Events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Scottish Cup, the United States Women’s Premier League, and the Rugby Americas North Women’s Rugby Championship have helped to generate positive momentum and attract new fans to the game. With each passing season, these tournaments continue to showcase the immense talent and athleticism of women’s rugby, and inspire young girls everywhere to pursue their dreams on the pitch.

Men’s sporting teams have increasingly shown their support for women’s rugby in recent years. One such example is Real Madrid, a football club based in Spain, which announced in 2019 that it would be launching a women’s rugby team. This move was seen as a significant step towards the development of women’s rugby, especially given the prestige and global influence of the Real Madrid brand. Additionally, various men’s rugby teams and players have also expressed their support for women’s rugby and advocated for greater investment and promotion of the sport. This increased support from men’s sporting teams has helped raise the profile of women’s rugby and contributed to its growing popularity around the world.

Thuto and Crystal’s journeys serve as powerful examples for aspiring young girls who may have once thought that rugby was exclusively a male domain. Their trailblazing achievements have paved the way for increased inclusivity in the sport and have shattered long-standing gender barriers. By embracing the sport they love, they empower future generations of female athletes to challenge societal norms and excel in their chosen endeavours. As women’s rugby continues to evolve and capture the attention of fans worldwide, the journey of Thuto and Crystal stands as a testament to the potential and power of female athletes. Through their dedication, skill, and passion, they inspire millions of spectators, break down barriers, and pave the way for Women’s Rugby South Africa and for future generations of women rugby players to shine on the world stage.