UXi played a massive role in the success story of Klarissa van der Linden
Klarissa van der Linden’s ascent from UXi Sport to the Blue Bulls is a compelling story of inspiration, dedication, and the importance of mental fortitude. Her journey highlights the important role of UXi Sport in shaping her rugby career and personal development.
Overcoming Challenges:
Klarissa’s journey at UXi Sport was marked by overcoming significant mental challenges. “Most challenging for me was that I thought putting your body on the line every day would only be very physically demanding, but it was more mentally demanding,” she explains. Her advice to aspiring rugby players to overcome these hurdles is to speak vulnerably and honestly with your coaches and trusted loved ones. UXi’s coaches make this possible for us as athletes because they do not judge you, they support and facilitate the challenging journey.
This open communication provided her with the motivation and support needed to persevere and set a growth mindset. This approach aligns well with the inclusive sports management philosophy promoted by UXi Sport, where mental well-being is as crucial as physical prowess to enable an athlete to face challenges. There is such so much required of athletes to become professional rugby players, that no one prepares you for, to remain focused for 24 hours requires a positive mindset
Validation through Hard Work:
The recognition Klarissa received for her hard work was a major highlight of her time at UXi Sport. Seeing her preparation pay off on the field reinforced her commitment and validated the effort she put into her training. This acknowledgement from her coaches is a testament to UXi Sport’s high-performance program, which aims to push athletes beyond their limits and prepare them for professional success.
Building a Rugby Profile that stands the test of time:
While Klarissa’s contract with one of the most aspirational national teams, the Blue Bulls, came just a month into her time at UXi Sport, she credits the academy with helping her build a solid rugby profile. She went to the Blue Bulls after only a month at UXi, she attributes her break-through moment to talent, but more importantly UXi’s programme that has helped her become stronger, rugby smart, fitter, create a rugby profile with video footage and credible statistical reports.
Hard work always outplays talent, and this is what the programmes continuously teaches you!
Her goal is to be playing rugby overseas, and she hopes that UXi Sport’s support will help her achieve that ambition by the end of the year. The comprehensive training and resources at UXi Sport, including creating professional rugby profiles, are designed to help athletes reach their international goals.
Developing Self-Discipline
Klarissa credits UXi Sport with significantly improving her self-discipline. Klarissa says that she has always struggled with self-discipline, and UXi motivated her to push harder than I even thought she could. The academy taught her the importance of consistently showing up and working hard for her future self. This emphasis on self-discipline is a key component of UXi Sport’s philosophy, helping athletes develop the mental toughness needed to succeed both on- and off the field, to break through the many pain barries from a strenuous squat deadlift to taking hard tackles and hits.
Advice to Aspiring Players:
Klarissa’s advice to current and aspiring rugby players at UXi Sport is clear. Her journey underscores the importance of perseverance and self-discipline in achieving success.
Committing to something you are passionate about is the key to success. You will not be motivated every day; that is when self-discipline comes into play. By proving to yourself through consistent hard work, it gets easier because I have proven to myself that hard work always pays off,” she affirms.
Klarissa’s story is a shining example of the impact of UXi Sport’s training programs. It illustrates how the academy’s comprehensive approach to athlete development, which includes technical training, mental conditioning, and personal growth, prepares athletes for the demands of professional rugby. For those looking to build a rugby career, Klarissa’s journey is a powerful testament to the value of training at UXi Sport. Visit UXi Sport’s website to learn more about their rugby institutes, high-performance programs, and how they can help you achieve your rugby dreams.
