When she steps out on the court her love for netball is clearly visible, but when you drop her name in front of her netball teammates they say with pride that she is the rugby player of the team.
The centre and wing attack of the NWU-Pukke, Mandy Hermanus, frequently exchange the court for the grass turf when she represent the women’s Leopards team in Potchefstroom.
“I just wanted to try a different sport besides netball. Rugby only caught my attention at varsity about two years ago,” said Hermanus.
“The coach came to me and asked if I don’t want to try it out and the idea of playing rugby sounded cool. I just love sport in the general,” Hermanus added.
When Hermanus was asked about the juggling two sports and her academic life, her answer was straightforward.
“Time management is very important. I need time to focus on my sport and studies but I also make time for my social life,” said Hermanus.
When her interest in rugby started, she made it clear that she committed herself more to netball.
“I started with netball at the age of six. From that moment on I fell in love with the sport and committed myself totally,” said Hermanus.
Her teammates describe her as a person with a good sense of humour, and when she was asked about a silly moment on the netball court she did not disappoint.
“My most embarrassing moment on court was when I fell over my own two feet without any players around me,” said Hermanus.
Hermanus said that the Pukke squad is looking forward to playing against each team in the Varsity Netball tournament.
“We look forward to embracing every moment. There is a fun and positive vibe among the girls. We’re looking forward to playing against every team because we do love a challenge,” said Hermanus.
To her opponents, be careful, as she might just tackle you on court.
Catch this dynamic player and the NWU-Pukke side every Monday as they show their colours in the scintillating 2016 Varsity Netball season.
By Raynique Meyer
