Tereske Kabuika, a 19-year-old from Atlantis, is gaining recognition in the world of women's rugby. Just over a year ago, she began her journey in this sport, but she has already received a significant opportunity—an invitation to the prestigious Springboks youth team.
Kabuika, who lives in Avondale in Atlantis, has established herself as a notable figure in her community. Previously, she had won numerous medals and shown talent in competitions since her time at Parkview primary school. She was previously known for her achievements in athletics, participating in 100 and 200-meter races and competing at South African championships.
Kabuika's life changed due to curiosity. She shared that she was initially advised to try rugby but refused. However, a girl invited her to training in Mamre, and after attending in March/April last year, she continued playing. Unfamiliar with the rules, she was taught by coaches and teammates and began playing for the Mamre Rugby club.
She soon demonstrated potential on the field, leading to participation in the Boland selection tournaments for the U20 team. This gave her a chance to play in Johannesburg during the South African Women's Rugby Week (SARU). After an impressive performance, Kabuika was invited to the Boland senior squad for pre-season training, and subsequently to the Elite Player Development Camp.
Recently, Kabuika and her family received wonderful news that she has been selected for the Springboks youth squad. She is one of 30 athletes who will represent South Africa in an international series in the United States (USA) on July 17th and 24th. Kabuika noted that she was very pleased, considering she only started playing rugby last year, and she is confident she can keep improving.
As the middle child of five, Kabuika emphasized that she is supported not only by her family members. When asked about sports idols, she replied that they are all the coaches who helped her, noting that teaching someone who knows nothing requires patience. In the coming years, Kabuika hopes to make it into the senior women's team and participate in the next Women's Rugby World Cup.
