By Kara Olivier
Maties Women’s Rugby first ever training camp took place between 6 and 9 September in Bredasdorp, according to Head Coach Johann Zeier.
“Traditionally only the men’s teams went on camps. Now that the ladies have done it, I’m sure they will see the value in it as well. We hope it becomes an annual event in the women’s program,” said Zeier.
The team has made “huge improvements” since the start of the season only a month and a half ago, according to Bianca Augustyn, captain of the Maties Women’s Rugby First team.
The road to USSAs
The team used the weekend to prepare for the upcoming University Sport South Africa (USSAs) 7s tournament that is taking place this weekend from 22 to 25 September in Kimberley.
They utilised their time away to focus on learning as much gameplay as possible in preparation for the remainder of the season.
“The main focus was to get all the systems in place and to lay a good foundation to build on for the USSAs. The camp gave us some extra time to really learn all the plays and focus on the basics,” she said. They are working towards placing in the top four at the USSAs this weekend, according to Augustyn.
“Team bonding was massive for us as well,” said Zeier. He hopes that the connections made while at camp will allow the team to connect better on and off the pitch.
“It has enhanced connection in the group as well as built some team spirit and I’m hoping this can translate to better on-field performance,” said Zeier.
The camp provided the ladies with a similar sporting environment and opportunities to their male counterparts and was a testament to Stellenbosch University’s support of women’s sport, according to Zeier.
The team would like to thank Maties Rugby, Maties Sport and Stellenbosch University for their continued support and stated that they were excited to see what the rest of their season holds.