Women’s Month: Wits’ sporting women have their say!
- Tshepiso Mametela
AS SOUTH AFRICANS celebrate Women’s Month in earnest amid the chaotic nature of social existence brought on by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, and the recent wave of GBV in the country, five of Wits’ stellar female student-athletes took the time to reflect on their role in sport and what it symbolises.
Sharmaine Shungube, Wits Boxing
Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?
A: Sport has not always been something women were allowed to take part in, especially combat sport [such as boxing], as we had been made to believe we were too soft or fragile to be a part of such sports. You wouldn't imagine the different reactions I get from people when they hear I'm a boxer.
Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?
A: That's the great part about being able to do something everyone thought you couldn't do, proving them wrong. And by being able to do so I celebrate all the women that put in their blood, sweat and tears so that we can be women.
Panashe Chiranga, Wits Netball
Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?
A: Being a woman in sport is a constant reminder of how our capabilities stretch far beyond our expectations. It shows the beauty that exists in the versatility of a woman.
Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?
A: Women's Month, to me, is a reminder of the great power and monumental influence that women have, more so, when we are united.
Trystan Da Silva, Wits Cricket
Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?
A: Sport has taught me the fundamentals of being a part of a team. I am more goal-oriented, driven and motivated to be a better person on and off the field. Discovering a deep love for cricket has truly changed me. The techniques, discipline and overall fitness has created a deep-seeded passion in me to be a better sister, focus more on my academics and love myself more.
Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?
A: There is something inside of you that wants to stand out and be recognized and that’s what’s special about Women’s Month. In a world full of violence, pain and anger women are shown some sort of gratitude and appreciation for who they are … Women deserve to be respected and because of the past generations’ guidance, we will scream until we get it.
Sarah Wentzel, Wits Gymnastics
Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?
A: Being a woman in sport has been challenging, to say the least. In the sports I have competed in, such as dance and gymnastics, I have had to work hard. I started later in life, without prior training, and had to work harder than those around me ... We are capable and I like to show that. I have will power and strength within me [and] can do hard things and I have relied on God for all that strength and ability.
Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?
A: Women's Month is a celebration of the type of humans we are, compassionate, kind, loving, forgiving, so welcoming and inviting. We are capable of feeling the emotions of people and emphasising on deep levels. I appreciate women around me, like my mom, who is one of the best women in the world.
Lezaan Jansen van Vuren, Wits Hockey
Q: What does it mean to be a woman in sport?
A: I sometimes ask myself the question: ‘Why do men play “football” but women play “women’s football”?’ I feel that female athletes deserve a space in sport irrespective of men. For a female athlete to find a “place” in the traditionally male domain is challenging …. For me, being a woman in sport is encouraging and it gives me the opportunity to voice my opinion and inspire young girls to keep on working hard because there will be a better future in sport for them.
Q: What does Women’s Month mean to you personally?
A: Women’s Month, for me, is a very special month where we as women can stand together to raise awareness of issues women are facing worldwide. This month gives us the opportunity to show the world that we matter and that we are worth much more than what we are put out to be.