WP Rugby and R10 partner to advance women's rugby pathways in Western Cape

Twenty Western Province Rugby (WP) players have joined the Rugby Tens (R10) High Performance programme in Cape Town, marking a non-exclusive partnership between WP Rugby and the R10 organisation.

This collaboration is focused on advancing elite pathways for women in rugby and equalising resources in the sport.

“This partnership reflects R10’s ongoing commitment to advancing elite pathways for women, while at the same time equalising resources for men and women in sport,” said Andreea Trufasu, CEO of R10.

The partnership not only strengthens the pathway for elite women’s rugby players but also deepens the relationship between WP Rugby and the R10 platform, which evolved from the Rhinos Rugby organisation, founded in 2016 in the USA.

“We look forward to expanding this partnership with WP Rugby and other unions at our Rugby Villages in Gordon’s Bay, South Africa and San Clemente, California,” added Trufasu.

In recognition of the partnership, the R10 logo now features on the WP Women’s jersey.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ATHLETES

R10’s comprehensive high-performance training program offers players from all backgrounds the chance to train and compete at the highest level. This provides them with opportunities for selection to various R10 events, tournaments, and scrimmages, as well as for pursuing opportunities at university, professional, and national team levels.

Ryno Combrinck, Director of Coaches Advancement at R10, expressed optimism about the program's impact: “Our hope is that it not only influences rugby in the Western Cape but also contributes to the game nationally and internationally.”

“We hope that the opportunity our HP Programme provides young women will inspire more players to ‘step into the arena’ and work to reach their potential. We also hope that these players will become ambassadors in their community and teams where they can advocate that dedication pays off,” he concluded.

Danny Jones, General Manager at WP Rugby, praised the collaboration: “The WPRFU greatly values its partnership with Rugby Tens. The Rugby Tens’ commitment and investment in the development of women’s rugby and the game as a whole within the province play a significant role in maintaining Western Province’s position as a leader in South African Rugby."

Nominated Players

The players, nominated by the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU), are:

Tamson Morgan

Doney Filies

Katelyn Morris

Khanyisa Sam

Tamlynn Paulse

Ronichia Gordon

Abigail Smith

Zaydene Frans

Kelly McKenna

Raeeqah Hendricks

Shaundre Francke

Xola Masakala

Lucia Ndwandwa

Khanya Fayayo

Ashlynn Smith

Akho Hondwana

Donelle Snyders

Katelynne Morris

Ruby Swartz

Asisipho Ntete

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