GEORGE NEWS - Five girls from SWD Rugby have earned the honours of being selected for the South African U18 Girls Elite Player Development (EPD) Rugby squad.
Ashley-Ann Williams from Parkdene Secondary School, Akeelah Mei from Groot-Brak Secondary, and Marchelle Cedras, Nayhla Jansen and Luhko Mpangeva, all three from George High, have kept the SWD name high with this prestigious achievement.
They were selected during the EPD camp held in late November/early December in Riebeek Kasteel where top talent from across provincial unions is identified for development and international exposure. Out of about 53 players, 26 girls were selected for the squad.
Ashley-Ann and Luhko were also invited to participate in the U20 National Development Camp that took place in Paarl on 5 December. These two have their eye on the Junior Springbok team eventually. Ashley-Ann, a very determined young player, is deadset on this goal.
Nayhla was also included in the U18 group that played two tests in Stellenbosch on 12 and 16 December against Paul Roos Gimnasium.
Chatting to George Herald, the girls said they love the sport because of the physical nature of it and the challenges they face on the field. It builds mental toughness and physical strength. "The development camp helped us discover our strengths and weaknesses and really tested our fitness levels. Each of us also learned a lot about our positions," said Marchelle.
Ashley-Ann said it can get very tough and sometimes she wants to throw in the towel. "But when I start thinking of the effort I've put in and the long road that I've come, I just go on and give it all I've got."
Coach Shamark Pedro says he doesn't spare them on the field. "They have to work hard, but it is all worth it when you receive acknowledgement at this level. I am very proud of them and we are working towards higher heights."
Girls or schools interested in becoming part of girls rugby, may contact him on 064 004 9519, Sihle on 076 776 2926 or Sammy on 071 567 3951.
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