WOMEN’S RUGBY: THE JOURNEY OF HER
Rugby: invented by men, perfected by women.
HER JOURNEY…
Thuto Naledi Rantso
Meet our first female Rugby player at the UXi Griquas Rugby Institute – Thuto Naledi Rantso. Thuto’s journey of being a female Rugby player in a male dominated industry was not always easy. Many times she could not play rugby based on her gender.
Thuto had the opportunity of following her dreams to become an UXi student-athlete at the Griquas Rugby Institute. She was welcomed with open arms and were embraced for being the only female in an all male team. She is so thankful for this opportunity of UXi believing in her and the platform UXi is providing her to build her career in the Rugby world.
Thuto plays Rugby because it motivates and inspires her to work hard towards the things she wants to accomplish in life and it is her biggest source of joy. Her goals in terms of her Rugby career is to be fit and improve her weight lifting, to develop new skills, to be a good teammate and to have good sportsmanship.
She is thankful for the lessons she learns from making mistakes as she has big aspirations of being an International Women’s Rugby Player in future. She wants to show other females around the world that you can play any sport you want in life and that gender should not be a limitation!
UXi and the Griquas Rugby Institute salutes you Thuto Naledi Rantso for being an unstoppable female Rugby Player brave enough to fight for your dreams. You are truly a force to be reckoned with!
Crystal Francis
“Because of Rugby I am an unstoppable, fearless and a strong Female”
The Griquas Rugby Institute welcomed our second female athlete. Meet the unbelievably determined and inspiring Crystal Francis.
Crystal’s journey at the Griquas so far has been nothing but eXtraordinary she says, learning lots of new things both on and off the field.
Her goals in terms of her Rugby career is to develop new skills, improve her strength training as well as her performance on the field. She is also working hard to develop a mental mindset that is goal driven in order to motivate herself to push herself to her limits.
Crystal has big aspirations to become a Female Springbok Rugby player in the future.
Crystal – UXi and the Griquas Rugby Institute salute you for your bravery and determination to show society a female is not afraid to go for what she wants in life. May this journey bring you so much joy and lead you to great heights in your career! UXi and GRI will support and guide you all the way.
Lidene Kruger
Lidene Kruger was selected to represent the Junior Womens Springbok U/20 Team in 2024.
Tyrell Wilson
Tyrell Wilson’s journey from UXi Sport to playing for the Sanlam Boland Dames is an inspiring story of determination and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Her experience at UXi Sport has not only shaped her into a formidable player but also into a strong, confident individual ready to take on any challenge.
Overcoming Challenges:
Tyrell faced significant challenges during her time at UXi Sport, primarily due to the rigorous daily exercise regimen and the unique situation of being one of only two women training alongside hundreds of men. “It was difficult to keep up because they are more intense and moving way faster,” Tyrell recalls. She overcame these challenges by strengthening her mind, consistently showing up, and refusing to show any fear on the field. Asking questions and seeking understanding further helped her navigate these tough training sessions. Training with men provided Tyrell with a unique advantage, pushing her beyond her limits and helping her develop essential skills. “Being able to train with men is such a step ahead for me as a woman,” she explains. This experience made her tougher, improved her game, and allowed her to learn from both coaches and teammates. The intensity of these sessions helped Tyrell find her edge and realize her full potential.
Building Mental Strength:
Tyrell’s time at UXi Sport made her mentally strong and confident. She learned the importance of hard work, perseverance, and staying positive even when outcomes weren’t as expected. “It made me mentally strong, and confident, and also taught me the importance of hard work,” she says, highlighting how these attributes have been crucial in her development as a player.
Gaining Patience and Calm:
One of the most significant personal growth areas for Tyrell was learning patience. “Being patient is the one thing I never had, and it’s the one thing I had to adapt to while being at UXi Sport,” she shares. This newfound patience has helped her become a calm and rational woman, ready to tackle challenges both on and off the field.
Empowering Women in Rugby:
Tyrell sees her journey with UXi Sport as a way to empower other women. “Being part of UXi Sport is also to empower women, where strength, speed, and determination meet passion and purpose,” she says. Her story is a testament to how women can push boundaries, own their greatness, and excel in rugby. This is particularly relevant in the context of South African rugby, where opportunities for women are expanding thanks to inclusive programs at institutes like UXi Sport.
Tyrell’s journey is an inspiration within the broader context of South African rugby. Her training at UXi Sport, a leading rugby institute in South Africa, has prepared her to compete at high levels, potentially joining provincial teams like Pumas Rugby, Western Province Rugby, or Griquas Rugby. The influence of the international rugby institute at UXi Sport has provided her with the skills needed to excel both locally and potentially on the international stage. This aligns with the broader goals of UXi Sport, and its high-performance programs designed to produce top-tier athletes.
Tyrell Wilson’s story is not just about personal achievement but also about the impact that UXi Sport has on those who are part of its academies and programs. It highlights the academy’s commitment to developing well-rounded athletes who are prepared for the professional world and beyond. If you are an aspiring rugby player, Tyrell’s journey is a compelling reason to consider UXi Sport for your development.
Visit the online registration to learn more about UXi Sport’s rugby institutes, high-performance programs, and how you can be helped to become a professional rugby player.
Read the journies of our UXi Sport Women:
Thea MillerLaricia SmitCarol JacobsPromise TshabanguUné SmitTenícke SmitKobie SwartZwonaka MbedziNina Bothma
Thea Miller | UXi Sport Chief Executive Officer
After completing a degree in Marketing management and education, Thea’s journey included management, entrepreneurship and leadership in various industries such as insurance, fashion, retail, motor, property, hospitality and education.
She found herself at the forefront in the rugby industry in 2018, introducing a rugby development and education platform to the rugby unions across South Africa. She bravely fights for improved opportunities for youth and women in rugby and sport- promoting rugby and sport education, the importance of building careers for life after physical sport participation.
She describes sport as the toughest and most challenging industry she has ever worked in and had to overcome many disappointments and obstacles. However, her dream to create job opportunities and improve the unemployment of so many individuals in the industry are not only her passion, but a vision she lives by.
Thea believes that to change the world and overcome its many challenges, you need to be the CHANGE you want to see in this world, and that you can not expect a different outcome by continuing to do things in the same manner.
Laricia Smit | PR/Communication and Events Director
Laricia Smit has 25 years’ experience in the public relations and communication management industry. She has project managed several marketing communication campaigns and is a registered Chartered Public Relations Practitioner. During her career, she has been responsible for the implementation of various communication strategies in the transport, education, mining and manufacturing industries and has recently ventured into sharing her knowledge and expertise in the sport marketing and events industry.
She has conceptualised, planned and implemented various national and international events ranging from conferences, seminars, workshops and training programmes. Her passion is academic development and education and she has been a part-time lecturer for the past 23 years at various private education providers in the country.
Laricia is the author of three academic handbooks: Event Management: Putting theory into practice – A South African Approach (5th Edition) (Masterskill Publishers); Marketing Communication (Pearson Education) and Business Management Principles (Pearson Education) and is a regular presenter at workshops and seminars on event management, business and entrepreneurship, ethics and communication. Her recent works include online course development during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) on Event Management, Office Administration, Travel and Events, CRM for Project Developers, Social Media and Sales & Marketing. She is a registered trainer for courses presented in Mauritius and registered by the Mauritian Qualifications Authority (MQA) as well as the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Carol Jacobs | National Finance Manager
Carol is a dynamic professional with a diverse career journey. Born in 1979, she is currently 42 years old and has achieved significant accomplishments in various fields. She embarked on her educational journey by obtaining her matriculation in 1997, setting the foundation for her future endeavors.
Through many trials and tribulations, Carol was able in 2015 to pursue her passion for finance and completed her National Diploma in Financial Accounting through part-time and self-paced studies. Armed with a solid understanding of financial principles, she set out to make her mark in the business world. Her first decade of work experience was in the retail sector, where she honed her customer relationship skills as well as financial expertise and gained valuable insights into the corporate landscape.
Not content to rest on her laurels, Carol transitioned to the academic sector, where she spent the next 10 years contributing to the development of young minds. Her time in academia provided her with a different perspective, nurturing her abilities in leadership, communication, and mentorship.
Driven by her love for sports and recognizing the need for women to enter the sports industry, Carol used her financial expertise to gain entry and pursue a new challenge. She now holds the esteemed position of National Financial Manager at UXi Sport, a position she is deeply passionate about. As a woman of color in finance and sports, she feels that the sports sector has helped her break some barriers, furthering the growth and success of the sport on a national level.
Carol hopes her journey serves as an inspiration to those who strive to achieve their goals through hard work, dedication, and a willingness to embrace change. She lives by the quote of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
Promise Tshabangu | HFPA Finance Manager
After completing her qualifications in Corporate Governance, Administration and End-user Computing, Promise joined HFPA in 2008 and was introduced to the Fitness & Sport Industry. Promise is a dedicated and experienced financial professional with over 12 years’ worth of experience. Promise is a challenge-driven woman who possesses strong leadership and customer relations skills.
Since joining the Fitness and Sport industry, Promise quickly learnt more about the sport and fitness world; of which now she is extremely passionate about. Promise shares that it is always such a pleasure when talking to the HFPA Students, as she can hear the excitement and passion they have for the Fitness and Sport industry and for changing people’s lives.
Promise says that is has been extremely rewarding to watch the transformation of the HFPA students to Fitness Professionals; all of which end up doing exceptionally well in the industry.
Promise’s favourite quote is: “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. She believes that change starts with each person, and it is important to remember this in each step of your life.
Uné Smit | Academic Development Manager and Quantitative Analyst
Uné Smit is a highly accomplished professional serving as the Academic Development Manager and Quantitative Analyst. Her academic background includes a BCom Degree in Economics & Econometrics and a BCom Hons in Econometrics, focusing on the measurement of economic behavior and the impact of economic policies using economic theory, data, and statistical techniques. In addition, she holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and is SACE registered. Uné has been recognized as a provincial and district teacher moderator appointed by the DBE.
During her tenure, Uné achieved remarkable success with her 2022 NSC Final Exams Matric Learners, securing an impressive 19th position in South Africa for candidates with the most distinctions. Furthermore, her learners excelled even further by placing 4th in Gauteng for Quintile 5 schools. These achievements demonstrate Uné’s exceptional teaching and leadership skills, as well as her commitment to academic excellence.
Currently, Uné is embarking on a new venture in higher education, where she will play a crucial role in the academic development of various new course offerings. Her specialized skills in applying mathematical and statistical methods will be instrumental in identifying at-risk students and implementing strategies to enhance education management techniques.
With her expertise and dedication to fostering academic growth, Uné is poised to make a significant impact in higher education, ensuring that students receive the support they need to excel in their studies. Her passion for education and her proficiency in quantitative analysis make her an invaluable asset to her team and the institution she serves.
Tenícke Smit | Social Media Manager
Tenícke Smit is a three-times silver medallist at the World Championships of Performing Arts 2017 in Hollywood Los Angeles for Acrobatics, Jazz and Freestyle with an overall placing of 2nd out of 67 countries. As a dance-athlete she has performed in Africa, Europe and the United States of America. She is the owner of “Unicke Dance, Models, Performing Arts & Events” responsible for the choreographing, training and conditioning of dance-athletes competing on an international level.
She started her career as an acrobatic gymnast and later ventured into many other genres such as Jazz, Freestyle, Contemporary, Lyrical and Showdance. She has Gauteng and South African Colours in both acrobatic gymnastics and dance. She holds the title of SA Dance School Champion in her age group from 2015-2019 in various different styles and received many gold medals and division winning titles at competitions such as South African Championship of Performing Arts, SA Dance School Championships, Dance World Cup, Dance Stars and multiple Eisteddfods. Tenícke started teaching at the age of 17.
Tenícke also has a BCom Economics & Business Science Degree that she passed with distinction, as well as a Diploma in Ministry (Christian Entrepreneurship). Tenícke is passionate about dancing, modelling and performing arts and believes if you perform with your heart and soul your body will follow. Tenícke is also a lifestyle, commercial, skills and fitness model. She currently holds the titles of Miss International RSA 2022 and is the National Face of Talent Africa for 2023.
Kobie Swart | Senior Graphics Designer
Kobie completed her Diploma in Visual Communication in 2009. She Kickstarted her career in graphic design in 2010 at a Church in Pretoria East. She has since worked at a design agencies, a printing house and as in-house designer at a tertiary education provider.
She started her journey as Senior Graphic Designer in the Sports and Fitness Education industry in January 2023. She finds it remarkable that there are so many diverse job opportunities available in this industry and is proud to be part of these two companies that pride themselves on not only providing quality sports, health and fitness education to young aspiring sports and fitness fanatics, but also assist in launching their careers in the wide spectrum that these industries have to offer.
Kobie believes that teamwork makes the dream work, and that it is important to be a supportive and contributing team player in all spheres of life.
Zwonaka Mbedzi | WPRA Video and Game Analyst Intern
Zoe completed her undergraduate degree in sports coaching and human movement science at the North-West University. She then proceeded to complete an honours degree in sports science (High Performance Sport) at the University of Stellenbosch.
Zoe is an extremely talented and multi-skilled young lady. She has a unique skillset for all things sports-related, from a practical and technical side. She has experience in coaching, strength and conditioning and performance analysis. However, video and game analysis quickly became one of Zoe’s passions, especially within the world of rugby.
Her love for rugby lead her to pursue various opportunities within the technical and performance analysis department. Whilst tough as a young female in a male-dominated spot, Zoe dove headfirst into every opportunity that came her way. Zoe quickly found an opportunity as a rugby technical assistant for Stellenbosch University and assisted a local rugby club with their match coding. Her dedication and commitment to her craft provided her an opportunity at the Western Province Rugby Academy as their Video and Game Analysis intern – only the second woman in the Academy’s history to do so.
Zoe is passionate about sport and the culture it creates; she loves being in a space where growth and learning opportunities are available, and where there is diversity in what she does. Zoe’s goal within her career is to help make a positive impact on the sports culture and help make way for and inspire other young females in sport.
A motto that Zoe lives by, and what got her to where she is today:
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for people. – Colossians 3:23
Nina Bothma | UXi Sport Content Creator
Nina is a final year BA Sport Science student at Stellenbosch University. Nina found a love for male-dominant sports, such as rugby and bodybuilding, at a young age. When she was in high school, she began capturing the feeling of these sports through photography and videography, specifically being her high school’s rugby photographer. Nina says that this gave her the platform to show people the “behind the scenes” view, and the diversity of what it means to be a rugby player. This has become one of the highlights of her career.
Nina’s previous experience in sales helped her improve her communication skills, empathy and ability to understand and see what people want. Nina loves how unexpected, exciting and ever-changing the content creation environment is. She loves being able to give her creativity free reign, and finding new ways to capture the energy, discipline and passion that rugby players portray.
Nina’s main goal is to capture the passion of the sport in her work. She wants to empower and show others that you do not have to be afraid to fight for what you dreams and pursue what you truly want to do in life. Even if you stand out, even if you are the only one doing it. You never know who you are inspiring.
Nina lives by the following motto: “5 seconds of courage is all it takes.” She feels that often people are to scared to pursue their goals or try something new for fear of failure or rejection. However, Nina believe that if you allow yourself to have 5 seconds of blind courage and just go for it, you never know where it might take you. Take the chances; not every every door will open for you, but the right ones always will. But you will never know if you don’t try.
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