A Grade 9 learner from Delft is seeking the public’s help in making her dream of becoming a professional rugby player come true.

Naphtali Makengo, a 15-year-old learner at Curro Delft, has recently been selected for the Cape Town All Stars, who are going on a rugby tour to Argentina.

Professional rugby

Naphtali, who dreams of one day playing professional rugby, says the tour will greatly help her in achieving her goal. “I’m looking forward to experiencing rugby in another country, learning from different players and coaches, and representing my community and South Africa. It will also be my first time travelling overseas and my first time on a plane, so I’m really excited for that. I think the first thing I’ll say when I land is, ‘Alhamdulillah,’ because it will be a dream come true,” says Naphtali.

But where does her love for the oval ball come from? “My love for rugby comes from how the sport changed my life. I started playing during a difficult time when my parents were separating, and rugby became my escape. It gave me purpose, helped me clear my mind, and taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Ever since then, it’s become a huge part of who I am. I’ve been playing rugby for about three years. I started when I was 12 years old in Grade 6. Since then, I’ve represented my school and different clubs, played in older age groups, and also become a junior rugby referee, which has helped me grow both on and off the field,” she adds.

Mom is hero

Given that rugby is such a big part of her life, she does not name a single player as her biggest hero. “My biggest hero is my mom. She’s worked incredibly hard and has always supported me, even when things have been difficult. In rugby, I also look up to players and referees who lead by example, especially those who stay humble, work hard, and inspire the next generation.

“My dream is to become a professional rugby player and represent the Springbok Women’s team. I also want to become an international rugby referee and, outside of rugby, study to become an orthopaedic surgeon so I can continue helping athletes and other people through medicine,” she says.

The total cost of the tour is R32 300 excluding flights. “To secure my place on the team, I need to raise R8 000 by the end of July, and then continue fundraising to reach the full amount before the tour. I really wish the community can help me in achieving my goals.”

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