Ramogae finds sanctuary in rugby after dumping netball
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday August 22, 2014 12:48
Born in Ntlhantlhe, near Otse, Ramogae has found an accommodating sanctuary in rugby after deciding to drop netball.
Few women have chased their rugby dream in a sport that largely remains the preserve of men.
Ramogae told Mmegi Sport she was influenced by her friends to play rugby. She has fitted like hand in glove since her debut in 2011 at Ledumang Senior Secondary School. She joined Gaborone Hogs the following year before her blossoming career took her to Botho University Ryders. She plays as a prop.
“Props push in the scrums to restart play. Players are selected to play in different positions that suit their skills and body types.
You must also be aware that rugby demands a superb level of fitness,” she said.
Ramogae said her family was sceptical about her playing rugby as it is considered a risky sport. But now she has the full support of her family.
She said they are trained on how to avoid injuries although they are bound to get injured since rugby is a contact sport.
The third year Bachelor of Science and Computing student at Botho University said she is determined to promote the game to a level where it gets recognition and importantly the financial support it deserves.
Ryders finished the 2012 season in position six before improving to fourth last year.
Ramogae said they want to finish in the top three this season and they accumulated enough points to achieve their target. Ryders have 20 points and lie third in the eight team league. She said the main challenge is getting the right numbers following Botswana Rugby Union (BRU)’s move to introduce women’s 10s. Last year, women were playing 7s.
Ramogae said a team has to be made up of 15 players or more. The club utilises Moeding College students to get the numbers.
Ramogae is considered one of the best players as she was selected to the national team last year. She hopes last year’s national team breakthrough will open doors to more call-ups in future.
Botho University Ryders chairperson, Simon Kanaimba heaps praises on Ramogae describing her as a talented player. Kanaimba says Ramogae is a true leader, which is the reason why she was installed as captain. He says chances are high that she will be selected for the national 7s team.