Durban University of Technology (DUT) student Elami Zonele’s rugby journey has taken a remarkable turn, with the third-year student earning a call-up to the Springboks A training camp just 18 months after taking up the sport.
Zonele, who is studying towards a Diploma in Business and Information Management, caught the attention of the national coaching staff while representing the DUT Warriors at the Betway Women’s Club Championship at Alberton Rugby Club in Gauteng in September.
Growing up in Gxididi, near Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, Zonele had never played rugby until April 5, 2025. Within weeks of taking up the sport, her talent was already shining through, earning her Player of the Match honours.
Her progress continued in July 2025 when she was selected for the University Sports South Africa squad, followed by a place in the KwaZulu-Natal Under-20 team representing The Sharks.
She later joined The Sharks’ senior women’s Test training block and became part of the WXV Sharks team, while continuing to represent DUT at club level and The Sharks provincially.
Her latest selection has given her the opportunity to train in the Springboks A camp environment, where she is undergoing skills and position-specific training.
Fellow DUT rugby player Sinoyolo Best was also selected for the camp but has been sidelined by injury.
DUT communications manager Tiyani Mboweni congratulated both students, describing their selection as a significant achievement.
“We are very proud of Elami and Sinoyolo. Being selected for the Springboks A camp is a major achievement, particularly considering how quickly Elami has progressed in rugby,” he said.
Mboweni wished Best a speedy recovery and praised both students for balancing their academic commitments with opportunities to compete at a high level.
Despite her demanding rugby schedule, Zonele remains committed to completing her studies. DUT is making arrangements to help her keep up with academic work and complete tests or examinations where necessary while attending camp.
Zonele credits her progress to hard work, determination and the inspiration she draws from Springbok Women’s prop Babalwa Latsha, whom she admires for her achievements on the field and her character off it.
She also encouraged fellow students facing the pressure of the academic year to remain focused and persevere.
“I know this is a tough season. The pressure is high, the syllabus feels long, and you are tired. But you have already done the hardest part, you showed up, you stayed consistent, and you are still fighting. That alone makes you a winner. You’ve got this. Good luck everyone!” she said.
From a rugby newcomer in 2025 to the Springboks A training environment in 2026, Zonele’s rise highlights the opportunities that can emerge through dedication and hard work.
For the young player, the call-up marks another step towards her ambition of competing at the highest level, while her journey could inspire more young women to take up rugby and pursue sporting opportunities alongside their studies.
