Yonela Ngxingolo is a highly skilled and versatile prop who is a key figure in South African women’s rugby. Playing for the Isuzu Bulls Daisies, as well as the Springbok women, she continues to showcase her skill, consistency and athleticism in the game and it is a joy to have her join me on the podcast this week.
In this powerful episode, Yonela takes us deep inside the final through the eyes of a forward. She unpacks the moment of Sizophila’s collision, revealing how it disrupted the rhythm of the game and forced the team to mentally recalibrate in real time. What followed was a masterclass in resilience, as the Isuzu Bulls Daisies adapted with precision, reading their opponents weaknesses, and ultimately fighting their way to victory.
We honour the incredible impact of Lusanda Dumke, whose presence loomed large over the final. Yonela reflects on how her influence was felt not just on the field, but in the hearts and minds of the players. In a deeply moving moment, she speaks about the unexpected Player of the Match performance, a display fuelled by the awareness that every game could be your last, so play it like it is. With Lusanda watching, the message became clear, be present, embrace the moment, and play with everything you have. We also talk about where it all began, her debut in 2018 against Wales. She shares the tears, the quiet prayer for a moment of magic.
From her early days playing netball, karate, and sprinting at school, to kicking a ball in the streets, Yonela’s journey is one of discovery, grit, and love for the game. She opens up about the lack of visible role models when she started, and how the rise in exposure of the Springbok Women has begun to change that narrative. We explore the growth of the women’s game in South Africa, the progress made, and the work still to be done.
There’s also a heartfelt reflection on the unmatched energy of a live crowd, particularly the Cape Town supporters during the Black Ferns XV clash (go Cape Town!) and how that passion fuels the team in ways that go beyond the scoreboard. The message is clear, get in to the stadium and support the team, it’s felt int he hearts of the players!
Yonela Ngxingolo closes with a special message to every supporter and to young girls dreaming of making sport their home one day, your moment can come at any time be ready. There is so many personal truths and words in this episode, join us and learn more about our phenomenal forward.