She is tall, slender, and striking beautiful. This dynamic young woman is a big admirer of Kate Moss and Tyra Banks, and she has even walked the catwalk in Paris…
But her greatest passion is rugby!
Introducing our September gSTAR: Springbok Rugby Women’s captain, Nomsebenzi Tsotsobe.
As you read this, Nomsebenzi is leading the national team at the IRB-sanctioned Women’s Rugby World Cup in Canada.
gsport caught up with Nomsebenzi shortly before she jetted off to Edmonton, to take on the world’s best female rugby players.
Date of birth: 24 November 1978
Nickname: Noms
Occupation: HR Clerk
Playing Position: Flank
Number: 6
Prov Representation: Eastern Province
Hometown: Kwamagxaki
Why do you play rugby?
I grew up in a home where rugby was a great passion in my family.
My father and my brothers played the sport and I admired them.
When I was younger, I used to play basketball and netball.
It then got to a point when I needed a bigger challenge, and I opted for rugby.
When did you start playing?
In 2001, I joined a men’s club and started training with them.
After a while, other women became interested and before we knew it, we had a team.
In 2003, an elite national squad was chosen, and I was made captain.
What’s it like being captain of the national team?
It only really hit me in 2004, when we played against Wales.
Suddenly, I was thrust into the spotlight, making speeches, giving interviews, and posing for photos.
It was an incredible feeling. I felt like a Springbok and I was thrilled to be representing my country.
How do you rate SA’s chances at the World Cup in Canada?
We are ranked 11th out of 12 teams, which makes us underdogs.
But, we have worked hard with our technical team and we are hoping for a top six finished.
Who knows, we may achieve more, like making the finals.
I think our strongest competition will come from the likes of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, and England.
Favourite rugby player?
My father has always been a role model for me in all spheres of my life.
But, especially with rugby, I hold him in very high esteem. When he passed away a few years ago, I was devastated.
But, I know he is always watching over me.
But, I know he is always watching over me.
And I still remember how I used to go to the stadium and watch him play. He is my hero.
Tell us about your hobbies, aside from rugby?
Modelling. I just love it.
I used to be a huge fan of Kate Moss when she first came on the scene, because even without makeup she was stunning.
I’m also quite fond of Tyra Banks. She is a huge inspiration.
Favourite food?
Umgqusho (Samp & Beans)
Favourite music?
I love R&B.
Why should Corporate South Africa support women’s sport?
If women are physically and mentally free, they become better mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, and overall, better women.
Sport allows women to express themselves.
If Corporate South Africa throws their weight behind women in sport, it will make our task a lot easier.
Advice for aspiring female rugby players?
Follow your heart and love the sport.
Its hard work being at the top of your game, but if you are passionate and prepared to do the basics right, good things will happen.
Greatest rugby dream!
I’m living it. I’ve long dreamt of captaining the Springbok women’s rugby team to the World Cup, and I’m finally doing it.
It’s an amazing feeling!
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