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ZIMBABWE Women’s Rugby sensation, Ropafadzo Madyah, continues to break new ground after she signed her first professional contract with South Africa Premier Division side Boland.
Madyah made her debut off the bench, in her side’s 11-5 victory over Sharks, last Saturday.
The second rower’s tale is a story of the tenacity of purpose.
She only started playing rugby, at the age of 15, while in Form Three, at Goromonzi High School.
“I never thought I would be here right now. Rugby was a scary sport for me when I joined,” Madyah told EnterSportNews.
“It does not matter where you are, if you put in the hard yards, and actually get to love what you are doing, the result will unfold in due time.
“Perseverance is key.”
In a country where there is a lot of emphasis on academics, Madyah is the epitome of achieving the perfect balance.
The 21-year-old is in her final year of a Bachelor of Commerce Financial Accounting degree at Stellenbosch University in South Africa.
“I am busy with my final year right now, and discipline is what’s keeping me going.
“When it’s time to work out in rugby, I give it my all and make sure I achieve the pre-set goal.
“When it’s time for books, I have to put all my focus there. So the most difficult thing would be staying disciplined, and being able to manage my time, effectively.”
Goromonzi High have churned out plenty of female rugby talent, and this has created a community that looks out for each other, and loves giving back to a game that has given them so much.
Madyah delights in knowing that her contract with Boland is not only for personal gain but is hoping her better-horned skills can serve her country better.
“It’s the opportunities and exposure I will get from it. I get to rub shoulders with Springboks players and get to enhance my rugby skills,” she said.
“I know with what I will grasp this side I can get to implement it when I play in Zimbabwe and help diversify the skills in our team.”
The Harare born player, who made her senior debut for the Women’s Sevens side four years ago, once contemplated ditching rugby.
“In all honesty, there was a time I felt like giving up, but rugby is so addictive, and it’s hard to leave.
“It’s the opportunities that keep coming my way that keep me going. I know I’m in the right direction,” Madyah said — EnterSportsNews
Online Reporter