Get ready to meet the inspiring women who are redefining the face of Wheelchair Rugby in South Africa
Wheelchair Rugby is often misunderstood as a male sport. In truth, it’s a co-ed sport that offers opportunities for athletes of all genders to participate and excel. In South Africa, a growing number of women are taking to the court, showcasing their skills, determination, and passion for the sport.
Despite the challenges they face, these women are breaking down barriers and paving the way for others to follow in their footsteps.
To shine a spotlight on some of the women of South African wheelchair rugby, highlighting their experiences, achievements, and perspectives on the sport, we spoke with three talented female athletes, a dedicated female referee, and a passionate female wheelchair rugby coach. Get ready to meet the inspiring women who are redefining the face of Wheelchair Rugby in South Africa!
Sandra Khumalo
Sandra Khumalo is a Wheelchair Rugby Fives athlete based in Johannesburg. She is a T12 paraplegic and plays for Mandeville Wheelchair Rugby.
South Africa Wheelchair Rugby (SAWCR): What drew you to Wheelchair Rugby, and how did you get started in the sport?
Sandra Khumalo (SK): I have a background in sports as a Paralympic Solo Rower. I was invited by one of the Mandeville athletes and fell in love with the sport from my very first go! This is my first time competing in a team sport, and I love it!
SAWCR: How do you think women in Wheelchair Rugby can inspire others to get involved in sports?
SK: To see women playing wheelchair rugby is to show that we are all destined for more, and to not let your situation or gender limit you. It shows that women are an important part of the game and have a lot to contribute!
SAWCR: Looking to the future, what are your goals with Wheelchair Rugby?
SK: The future looks bright! I hope to make it to the national team and show the world that as women we can stand up to anything that comes our way and conquer it.
Susan Jordaan
Susan Jordaan is a Wheelchair Rugby Fives athlete based in Pretoria. She is a T12 paraplegic and plays for TUKS Wheelchair Rugby.
SAWCR: How did you get involved in Wheelchair Rugby?
Susan Jordaan (SJ): I was introduced to the sport while in rehab after my accident in 2013. I took to the sport immediately; it’s fast, safe and a lot of fun! I eventually moved to Bloemfontein in 2017 and began playing with the Mustangs Wheelchair Rugby Club.
SAWCR: How do you prepare for competitions, and what strategies do you use to stay focused and motivated?
SJ: I have a structured training regime that is focused on strength, endurance and agility. I make sure all my equipment is in check (e.g. chair, wheels, axles, gloves, etc). I remind myself of my short and long-term goals; winning the match up, making the national side. Most importantly, it’s about remembering that it’s about playing for something bigger than yourself – your team and teammates.
SAWCR: Do you have any international female Wheelchair Rugby role models?
SJ: Yes! Kylie Grimes (Great Britain). Kylie made history at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics by becoming the first ever female to win a gold medal. She is a vocal advocate for inclusivity in sport and has shown that women can compete – and dominate – at the highest level.
Yolande Oosthuisen
Yolande Oosthuisen is a Wheelchair Rugby Fours athlete based in Pretoria. She is a C7 quadriplegic, has competed internationally for South Africa, and plays for TUKS Wheelchair Rugby.
SAWCR: How did your journey in Wheelchair Rugby start?
Yolande Oosthuisen (YO): About a year after my accident, I was encouraged to start training with TUKS Wheelchair Rugby Club to build my strength and improve my mobility, rather than buying an electric wheelchair.
At first that’s all it was, a way to get stronger. But I soon discovered that Wheelchair Rugby is so much more than just a sport. It was what I needed to find myself again.
I have accomplished more than I ever thought possible and have met people that feel like family to me now.
SAWCR: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in a sport like Wheelchair Rugby?
YO: As much as we strive to be equal to men, from a physical perspective we are often simply smaller and lighter. Sometimes I get pushed around on court because of my size and struggle to hold my own against stronger male opponents.
But, Wheelchair Rugby isn’t only about strength. It’s also about speed and being in the right place at the right time … and being smart – something women are naturally good at *wink*.
SAWCR: Have you experienced any stereotypes or biases in the sport, and if so, how have you overcome them?
YO: I can’t speak for the personal experiences of other female athletes, but I’ve never experienced any stereotyping or bias.
My male teammates have always treated me with respect, but they play just as hard against me as they would against any other male athlete, and that is exactly how I like it!
Maryka Jordaan
Maryka Jordaan is a female Wheelchair Rugby referee based in Pretoria. She is also Head of Officials for South Africa Wheelchair Rugby and has officiated at international events in the UK.
SAWCR: What inspired you to become a Wheelchair Rugby referee, and what do you enjoy most about officiating the sport?
Maryka Jordaan (MJ): My mother has a disability and competes in the sport. It looked like a lot of fun. Not having a disability meant that I wasn’t able to play the sport, so being a referee allowed me to be a part of the sport in my own way.
I enjoy making sure everyone plays with good sportsmanship and ensuring that the rules are followed for a fair game. I love being able to play my part in allowing people to do a sport that they love.
SAWCR: How do you balance the physical and mental demands of refereeing Wheelchair Rugby?
MJ: I exercise frequently to keep my fitness levels where they need to be so I can keep up with all the running around on court during the games. Mentally, I have a pre-match routine to help focus and calm my mind and remind myself: “It’s just a game”!
SAWCR: Have you experienced any stereotypes or biases in the sport, and if so, how have you overcome them?
MJ: Yes, there are times when players, coaches or spectators can negatively stereotype female referees; questioning our ability to meet the physical demands and doubting our decisions, especially the tough calls. However, through confidence, hard work and a good support network, I’ve been able to overcome those challenges. Over time, respect is earned and you just need to push through!
SAWCR: What advice would you give to other females that may want to become Wheelchair Rugby referees?
MJ: Familiarise yourself with the rules and observe experienced referees. Watch a lot of Wheelchair Rugby. There’s plenty of games on Youtube. It’s also good to join a local club and attend their training sessions.
You can also reach out to South Africa Wheelchair Rugby and get involved in their referee training programmes and internships.
Petronella Khanya
Petronella Khanya is coach of the Vikings Wheelchair Rugby Club based in Soshanguve. She has been involved in the sport for six years.
SAWCR: What motivated you to become a Wheelchair Rugby Coach?
Petronella Khanya (PK): A passion for sports and a desire to empower individuals with disabilities to participate and achieve in their chosen sport. I love having the opportunity to help people grow, develop and change their circumstances through sport.
SAWCR: How do you approach coaching and supporting female Wheelchair Rugby athletes?
PK: I focus on creating an inclusive environment, providing tailored support by offering good training and fostering awareness. I aim to address the barriers to entry, and create a safe space to get involved. I help female athletes build confidence to play among male athletes and encourage teamwork.
SAWCR: What are some of the most important qualities for a female Wheelchair Rugby Coach?
PK: Interpersonal skills like empathy, active listening and relationship building, are very important qualities. As a coach you need to prioritise the personal development of your athletes and understand their specific needs.
Getting involved
The future of wheelchair rugby in South Africa is bright and women are playing a vital role in shaping the sport’s growth and development. The stories of these remarkable women showcase the power of wheelchair rugby to transform lives and challenge perceptions.
If you’re inspired to join the growing community of women in wheelchair rugby, we encourage you to reach out to SAWR. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or referee, there’s a place for you in this dynamic and inclusive sport.
You can contact SAWCR at admin@sawcr.co.za, reach out to SAWCR Victor Buitendag at 084 308 5856, or visit the official website at www.sawcr.co.za. Get in touch today to learn more about the opportunities available and take the first step towards an exciting new chapter in your sporting journey.
