From Soccer Newcomer to Springbok Women’s Sevens Hopeful

Just over a year ago, Ms Sphesihle Fihlela was a soccer player who decided to try something new.

Today, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) BSc Computer Science and Information Technology student is preparing to take another major step in her rapidly developing rugby career after being selected for the Springbok Women’s Sevens Training Camp in Stellenbosch.

Fihlela’s journey from newcomer to national training camp has been both unexpected and rewarding. Her rugby story began when she joined the UKZN Rugby Club out of curiosity. What initially attracted her was not necessarily the sport itself, but the welcoming atmosphere and positive energy within the team.

“I enjoyed being part of a group that was passionate, supportive, and hardworking, and that made me want to keep coming back,” she says.

As she spent more time in the field, curiosity turned into passion. Rugby challenged her physically and mentally, teaching her lessons in teamwork, discipline, and resilience while helping her discover a new sporting identity.

Her selection for the Springbok training camp was therefore a particularly emotional milestone. “My first reaction was one of gratitude to God and excitement. It was a surreal moment because I knew how much hard work, discipline and sacrifice had gone into getting to this point,” she says.

The opportunity comes as Fihlela navigates another demanding challenge: completing her final year while competing at a high level.

Training sessions, tournaments, and travel have meant sacrificing weekends, social occasions, rest, and personal time. Yet the demands of being a student-athlete have strengthened rather than diminished her determination. “Balancing rugby and my studies has been one of the biggest challenges of my journey,” she says.

Her time at UKZN has taught her to manage pressure, adapt to challenges, and take responsibility for her choices, both on and off the field.

Behind her progress is a strong support system of family, coaches, teammates, and faith. Their encouragement has helped her push through moments of self-doubt and continue believing in what is possible.

Representing UKZN on a national stage is an honour she does not take lightly. “It means carrying the values of my university with pride and showing that UKZN students can compete at the highest level,” she says.

Her ambitions extend beyond the rugby field. She hopes to establish herself within the Springbok Women’s Sevens programme and represent South Africa at the highest level, while building a successful career in Computer Science and IT.

For young girls considering rugby, her message is clear: “Believe in yourself and never let anyone tell you that rugby isn’t for you.” As she embraces her own opportunity, Fihlela hopes to inspire more young women to challenge stereotypes and pursue spaces where they feel they belong.

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Words: Lorna Charles-Wright

Photograph: Supplied