The Springbok Women have not just shown up to this World Cup, they’ve arrived. For the first time in their history, they’ve won not one, but two World Cup games. And with that, they’ve punched their ticket to the quarter-finals. It’s more than a headline. It’s a watershed moment.
Let’s be clear: this didn’t happen by accident. This is what happens when planning, experience, and trust intersect. And a lot of that comes down to one name: Swys de Bruin.
When SA Rugby appointed De Bruin as the attack coach and technical advisor to the Springbok Women, it barely made a ripple. But in hindsight, it might be one of the smartest rugby decisions they’ve made in recent years.
Here was a coach with Super Rugby and Test rugby pedigree, a sharp rugby brain, and a knack for unlocking attacking potential. What could he do in a space where talent was raw, but the structures were fragile?
In less than a year, we got our answer.
This team now plays with clarity. Their attacking shape is coherent. Their support lines are crisper. Their breakdown work is sharper. And most importantly, they believe they can win, because now, they’re being coached like winners.
Too often, South African women’s teams across sports are sent to global tournaments with whispered hopes of participation, not progression. That’s changed.
Against Brazil and Italy, the Bok Women weren’t just competitive, they were dominant when it mattered. Their composure, fitness, and decision-making in tight moments were miles ahead of what we’ve seen in previous cycles.
Yes, the players deserve immense credit. They’ve been building for this. But De Bruin’s fingerprints are all over this team’s newfound confidence and cohesion. This is what happens when you invest real rugby IP in the women’s game.
Whatever happens in the quarter-finals, this tournament is already a win. And we shouldn’t wait for the final whistle to give Swys de Bruin and this coaching group their flowers.
South Africa now has a blueprint. Appoint high-level coaches. Give women players the same tactical sophistication and technical input as the men. Treat their games with the same seriousness. And you’ll see results.
IT’S TIME TO MATCH PERFORMANCE WITH INVESTMENT
If this is what can happen with just one or two experienced minds in the mix, imagine what this team could achieve with greater financial investment. Imagine what women’s rugby could become with proper support for the domestic league and age-grade competitions.
The Springbok Women have proven they belong. The players have done their part. So has Swys. Now it’s up to SA Rugby and corporate sponsors to take the baton forward.
Don’t let this be a one-off. Don’t let another generation wait.
South Africa’s women are ready to compete, and win, on the world stage. Give them the tools, and let Swys de Bruin’s impact be the beginning of a new chapter, not just a golden footnote.
SEND YOU MESSAGES OF CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SPRINGBOK WOMEN
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