Canada captain Tyson Beukeboom has praised South Africa’s leadership in championing the women’s game following a successful two-Test tour that saw her team claim a 2-0 series win over the Springbok Women.
Beukeboom, who led Canada to a 50-20 victory in Pretoria and a 33-5 win in Gqeberha, spoke with admiration about the strides South African rugby has taken in growing the women’s game — both on and off the field.
“More can be done for women’s sport in general. As far as rugby goes, South Africa has set a standard,” she told Sportboom. “The men [Springboks] have pushed the women [Springbok Women] forward. I am really supportive of the women’s program here [South Africa] and it’s awesome to see. I wish every country was like that, unfortunate truth, it’s not.”
The Canadian skipper singled out Siya Kolisi’s visible support during the tour as an example of what meaningful advocacy looks like.
“To have Siya Kolisi come in [the changeroom] and say hello to pretty much everyone in our team and be so involved, tagging us online and promoting the game it’s awesome to see that. Himself and his team [Springboks] are setting a standard of what it looks like to promote women’s rugby.”
Beukeboom’s comments echo a growing recognition that the Springbok Women are on an upward trajectory — thanks in part to institutional backing.
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander and CEO Rian Oberholzer have consistently championed the women’s game, recognising its importance to the growth of rugby in South Africa. Their leadership has underpinned a nationwide push to create more playing opportunities, enhance visibility, and strengthen pathways for aspiring Springbok Women.
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
