East London - Springbok women's rugby team winger Ziyanda Tywaleni will run out onto the field at the Nations Cup dressed in brand new kit.
This is thanks to the generosity of East Londoners who have thrown their weight behind the 24-year-old from Tsholomnqa. She was handed a two-piece tracksuit, running shoes, rugby boots and a sports bag by Buffalo City Metro mayor, Zukiswa Ncitha.
"I'm very grateful for the support I have received from the people of East London. I can now run onto the field with the same kit my teammates have," said Tywaleni.
A local newspaper donated spending money for the trip, as well as rugby boots and a tracksuit.
The sponsorships all came about as a result of a tireless campaign by the Tsholomnqa Sports Council to raise funds for its local heroine before her departure to Canada.
Tsholomnqa ward councillor Vuyani Peter was also overwhelmed by all the support Tywaleni received.
"I hope this encourages our girl to give her all at the tournament. Ziyanda is not just a rugby player to us, but a jewel and an ambassador for our community," said Peter.
Ncitha said sportswomen like Tywaleni deserved to be recognised and rewarded for the contribution they make to their local communities.
"These players play a very important role in showing other youth out there, especially girls, that anything is possible in life if you work hard," said Ncitha.
Tywaleni said in Canada, she will be using all the knowledge she gained while playing at this year's World Cup tournament in England earlier this year.
"We had some disappointing results in England but all that experience I gained will help us to finish in a more respectable position," added Tywaleni.
Another local and captain of the Springbok women's' team, Mandisa Williams, was upbeat about the team's prospects at the tournament.
"We want to win at least two games. With the squad we have, I'm sure we can do it," said Williams.
The tournament kicks off on August 2 and will see the team pitting their strengths against England, the USA and hosts Canada.
