Promising Sevens player Leigh Fortuin seeking fortune in Ghana

Touted as one of South Africa’s next women’s rugby stars, Leigh Fortuin is more than eager to prove herself on the international stage.

Fortuin is one of two players in line to make their South Africa Women’s Sevens debut this weekend after being named in a very experienced squad.

The team, coached by Renfred Dazel, will contest the Africa Women’s Sevens tournament in Ghana on November 9 and 10.

South Africa Women’s side will face Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe and Tunisia as they try to retain the title and qualify for the World Rugby’s Challenger Series.

#AUDIO: “There is always pressure at this level.” #rugby #news #sports #WomenInSport #WomenInRugby @WomenBoks https://t.co/UUqehdArhr

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The squad travelled to Ghana on Wednesday in good spirits after a training camp in Stellenbosch.

“The camp went well in terms of preparation. We trained hard and learned new things from some of the best coaches,” Fortuin told @rugby365com at the Cape Town International Airport on Wednesday.

“While it was tough, the toughness was worth it because it has prepared us well for what to expect on the trip.”

The 20-year-old Fortuin revealed not much focus has been put on their opponents.

However, the team’s objective for the tournament is clear.

“We need to win this tournament and finish at the top to qualify for the Challenger Series,” said Fortuin about a tournament that gives them hope to play in the SVNS World Series again.

“I think once we land in Ghana, the coaches will focus more on the opponents and analyse them.”

First for Fortuin

This is only her first tour with the senior sevens side, however, Fortuin revealed she already benefitted immensely from the experience.

“This will be my first time playing international Sevens and the camp helped me with the code,” said Fortuin.

“It makes me think outside of the box. I’m learning new things when it comes to defence and attack, the space and the width; how I need to align myself.”

For any 20-year-old playing, your first senior tournament is accompanied by pressure.

However, for this 20-year-old from Cape Town, being in a pressurise situation is nothing new, especially having to deal with the responsibility of being the Springbok Women’s Under-20 captain.

“As a captain having to lead a team is a lot of responsibility you have to take on yourself.

“Sometimes players don’t feel comfortable talking to a coach so they come to you.

“As a captain, it will make your teammates comfortable to speak to you.”

Hailing from Mitchells Plain, a small suburb located on the Cape Flats on the False Bay coast between Muizenberg and Khayelitsha in Cape Town, Fortuin could not contain her smile when asked about her community and how they have supported her.

“Having my community back me is very awesome,” said the happy Fortuin.

“Never mind the sport I did I always had the support from my community and that is what I love.”

NEWS: Here are the fixtures for Africa Women’s 7’s and where to watch👇https://t.co/H0CtPDuDoc

— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) November 5, 2024