In an ideal world, equal opportunities should be extended to all, with no barriers hindering anyone from venturing into the realm of sport, particularly not based on gender, geographical location, or economic status. Our narrative traces back to Zoe’s high school days when she first encountered touch rugby. Although initiated into the sport, Zoe’s desire to play full-contact rugby faced significant hurdles due to limited access and availability of teams and coaching. What began as a personal aspiration evolved into a determined quest to understand the challenges hindering girls’ involvement in rugby.
As Zoe expanded her rugby experience beyond high school, she confronted numerous issues and barriers impeding women’s entry into the rugby sphere. Cultural, socioeconomic factors, along with historical disadvantages in finance and gender, collectively limited opportunities for women in the sport. In response, Zoe set out to establish a pathway that would simplify and professionalise women’s entry into rugby. This endeavor culminated in the inception of the Girl Power Rugby Academy (GPRA), a haven designed to offer girls a safe environment to not only learn the game but also to be nurtured into fully-fledged players. The Academy stands as a testament to Zoe’s commitment to breaking down barriers and providing a seamless avenue for women to embrace and thrive in the world of rugby.
Since launching in April 2023, GPRA has worked tirelessly to provide all our players with opportunities to compete against other teams from across Cape Town. We have also opened our doors to touring sides, which has had a significant impact on our players by exposing them to diverse playing styles from all over the world. Additionally, we have hosted a mental health workshop aimed at equipping our players with stress management tools, both on and off the field. As part of our commitment to the well-being and growth of our players, we also organised a fun-filled holiday club to keep the girls engaged and active during school breaks.
At GPRA, we believe in not just building great athletes but also strong, confident young women who can navigate the challenges of both sport and life. Our Academy continues to be a space where girls can develop, excel, and be part of a supportive community that encourages them to reach their fullest potential.
To build a strong pipeline of girl rugby players, enabling women to advance from club, national, and international levels while cultivating an accepting and supportive environment that closes the gender gap in South African rugby.
The Girl Power Rugby Academy (GPRA) is committed to providing a platform for girls aged 6 to 18 to learn and play rugby. We aim to address the lack of grassroots development for girls in South African rugby by offering mentorship, coaching, and opportunities for both players and coaches, with a focus on overcoming barriers like limited access to resources and training. We strive to grow the number of women participating in rugby, ensuring they are supported both on and off the field.
Empowering Young Girls, Shaping the Future of Rugby.
Address:
Sports Complex, Constantia, Constantia Main Rd, Alphen, Cape Town, 7806
