Reservoir Hills's rugby revolution: 14 girls in KZN team

In a rugby revolution for girls in KwaZulu-Natal, 14 players from Siripat Lions Rugby Club have been chosen for the SATA Junior Interprovincial Tournament in Johannesburg. This marks a significant milestone for the Reservoir Hills-based club, which has grown from four provincial representatives in 2024 to 17 in 2025. Among the selected players, 14 are girls and three are boys, representing four schools – Dr AD Lazarus Secondary, Palmiet Primary, Resmount Primary, and Reservoir Hills Primary – where around 85 learners engage in contact and non-contact rugby programs.

Grade 10 student Nicole Zibula from Dr AD Lazarus Secondary has made history by being selected for the provincial A team for the second consecutive year. Rugby has been transformative for Zibula, teaching her discipline and confidence as a team player, lessons that have extended into her academic pursuits and leadership at school.

Noluthando Nkabinde, a Grade 6 student from Reservoir Hills Primary, is embarking on her first rugby journey to Gauteng. She hopes that her sport will open doors for her and her family, especially as her mother is a single parent working as a domestic worker.

Siripat Lions Club Manager and Coach Sibusiso Mosehla emphasizes that the program is about more than just rugby skills. Mentorship, discipline, and personal development are integral to the club's philosophy. The team is preparing for their trip, seeking assistance with rugby boots and sports apparel. For help, they can be reached at 073 089 3181 or [email protected].