From the Sidelines to the Stands: Witnessing the Power and Progress of Springbok Women at WXV2

Standing on the field at DHL Stadium, camera in hand, as the Springbok Women faced off against Spain on 19 September 2024, was a dream come true for me. The energy was electric, the cold Cape Town wind swirling around us as the players locked into intense tackles and strategic plays. It was more than just a rugby match; it was a showcase of strength, determination, and the rise of women in sports. Being one of the few female photographers capturing this historic event added a layer of pride to an already monumental evening. In the thick of it all, Libby Janse van Rensburg’s achievement of reaching 200 points for the Springbok Women was a standout moment I was honored to document.

The buzz around the WXV2 tournament has been palpable since that game, and while I’ve moved from the sidelines to the stands, my excitement has only grown. Watching the Springbok Women defeat Japan 31-24 on 27 September was a thrill in itself. It’s incredible to witness the progress of women’s rugby, with teams like South Africa, Japan, Australia, and Italy set to challenge one another in this prestigious competition. The WXV2 offers a platform not only for these teams to prove their mettle but also for us, the fans, to rally behind them as they continue to inspire future generations of female athletes.

As I now prepare to watch South Africa take on Australia this Saturday, I can’t help but dream of the day I’ll be back on the field, capturing every try, every tackle, and every roar of the crowd through my lens. There’s something special about seeing these women push themselves to the limit, knowing that each step they take on the field is also a step forward for women in sports. From the players, coaches, and support staff to the growing number of female photographers and journalists — the landscape is changing, and it’s exhilarating to witness and be part of that change.

This WXV2 series is not just about rugby; it’s about the movement and momentum behind women’s sports. The journey is far from over, and as I cheer from the stands this weekend, I know I’ll be back with my camera soon, ready to capture the triumphs and challenges of our Springbok Women. Here’s to their continued success and to the next opportunity to photograph their inspiring journey.