Cape Town, South Africa — A New Chapter in South African Sports Unfolds
In what promises to be a momentous occasion for South African sports, the Springbok Women's rugby team is set to face the San Clemente Rhinos from California, USA, in a friendly match at False Bay Rugby Club in Cape Town this Tuesday.
The limelight is not just on the team but also on a special debutante, Samantha Els, who happens to be the daughter of South African golfing legend Ernie Els.
A Sporting Legacy Continues
Samantha's father, Ernie Els — fondly known as the 'Big Easy' — is a celebrated figure in the sports world, with four major golf championships under his belt, including two US Opens and two British Open titles. This Tuesday, Samantha, a 24-year-old lock forward, will take her place in the second row of the scrum, right beside team captain Nolusindiso Booi.
Captain's Return
Nolusindiso Booi's return is another significant event as she'll be leading the Springbok Women for the first time since April 1, after recovering from an injury. Booi and Els will make up a formidable pairing in the lock positions, combining Booi's experience with Els' raw talent.
From Golf Greens to Rugby Fields
Before joining the New York Rugby Club, Samantha completed her Human Biology studies at Stanford University. She is no stranger to the sporting spotlight, having previously joined her famous dad at the Augusta National Golf Club during the Par 3 contests, prior to the 2016 Masters Tournament.
The Final Test Before WXV2
The match against the San Clemente Rhinos serves as a critical juncture for the Springbok Women's team. This is their final chance to impress coach Louis Koen before he announces the squad for the upcoming WXV2 tournament in Cape Town next month. The WXV2 tournament will feature six teams, including the Boks, two teams from Europe, and representatives from North America, Oceania, and Asia.
Match Details
Venue: False Bay Rugby Club, Cape Town
Date: Tuesday, 19 September 2023
Kick-off: 16h00
Referee: Bulela Qwane
Livestream: The match will be streamed live on the official Springbok YouTube channel.
As the excitement builds, all eyes will be on the False Bay Rugby Club this Tuesday, not just to see a thrilling match but also to witness the making of another South African sports legend in Samantha Els.
