Fellow sports stars, loved ones and sponsors shower Women Boks with well-wishes
In a stirring celebration of courage, unity, and national pride, First National Bank (FNB) in partnership with the South African Rugby Union (SARU) hosted a powerful send-off event for the Springbok Women’s rugby team as they prepare to take on the world at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
Set against the backdrop of Women’s Month, the evening was a vibrant tribute to the spirit of South African women in sport. With live entertainment, heartfelt speeches, and intimate conversations, the event brought together women sporting legends, SARU and FNB stakeholders, players and their families to honour the team’s journey and rally support as they prepare to face Brazil, Italy, and France in their quest to lift the Rugby World Cup for the first time.
“As you can imagine, this is an exciting time for the team, who worked hard over many seasons to get to this point. So, this occasion was a welcomed moment of comfort and encouragement before they get into high focus mode in their quest to take on the very best rugby players in the world. This send-off is more than a farewell. It’s a promise from the team to give their all, to fight for every inch, and to make South Africa proud,” says Springbok Women’s Coach Swys de Bruin.
As multiple winners of the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Champions, the team’s courageous journey to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup is a resounding signal that South African women are formidable competitors on the continent and beyond.
“As a bank, we’re proud to support the Springbok Women. Our role as the principal sponsor of SA Rugby goes beyond financial support, it’s an investment in women’s rugby as both a fundamental imperative and a strategic opportunity to ensure that women’s and girls’ rugby successfully emerges from the margins to front-of-mind among rugby fans both locally and globally,” remarks FNB’s Chief Marketing Officer, Faye Mfikwe.
With netball legend Bongiwe Msomi, cricket champion Sinalo Jafta, and famed commentator Kass Naidoo in attendance, the evening was a poignant reminder of the role sport plays in shaping a more inclusive and united South Africa.
“The Springbok Women’s journey is a story of grit and grace, and FNB is honoured to be part of it,” concludes Mfikwe.
SUPPLIED.
