The Isuzu Bulls Daisies are proud to announce the signing of seven dynamic players who will bolster the squad ahead of the upcoming season.
Four of these athletes have graduated from the Emerging Daisies programme, while three join from other unions, bringing fresh energy and depth to the team. This recruitment drive comes at a pivotal time for the defending champions as they navigate player transitions to national setups while maintaining their standard of excellence in domestic rugby.
Signed from the Emerging Daisies programme:
- Aviwe Hlongwane – A former No 8 turned loosehead known for her strength and physical prowess around the field. Hlongwane has impressed with her consistent play during the BBRU Women’s League.
- Noxolo Magasela – A slick and elusive fullback who thrives in open play. Magasela adds skill and speed to the back three.
- Thobile Msizazwe – Renowned for her speed, defensive composure and tactical awareness, Msizazwe has quickly established herself as a reliable performer on the wing.
- Karabo Lebotsa – A dynamic young hooker and playmaker with excellent ball-handling skills and defence. Lebotsa brings creativity and energy to the squad. Former SA Under-20 hooker.
Karabo Lebotsa with coaches Zenay Jordaan, right, and Bongiwe Nhleko.
Signed from other unions:
- Jamy-Lee Hoffman (pictured, above) – A hard-running centre and utility back with a reputation for breaking defensive lines. Hoffman adds experience and attacking punch.
- Robyn Strydom – A former SA Under-20 wing who excels in broken play and brings aerial ability and vision. Strydom strengthens the squad and is a good addition on the wing.
- Yandisa Nobanda – A talented flyhalf nicknamed “The General,” as she is called by her club mates. Nobanda was included in the Betway Women’s Club Champions MVP Best Club XV team. Her kicking and skilful play will test many teams in the upcoming Women’s Pick n Pay Super League, and her athleticism and work rate will be invaluable in the absence of Byhandre Dolf.
Noxolo Magasela with coaches Zenay Jordaan, right, and Bongiwe Nhleko.
Thando Manana, who heads up Women’s Rugby and Strategic Projects for the Blue Bulls Company, expressed his excitement at the new signings: “I’m delighted to be able to watch local women’s rugby and identify these players playing in the BBRU league. The ladies are some of the most exciting young talents in local leagues and have shown real composure and maturity already in the Isuzu Bulls Daisies environment.
“With us having lost six players to the national sevens setup, we had to identify very talented young emerging players who bring versatility and athleticism, with so much potential for development. Our coaches are already looking forward to working with them as we aim for more trophies together.”
The Isuzu Bulls Daisies thus continue to lead the way in women’s rugby development, combining homegrown talent with experienced recruits to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. These signings reflect the team’s commitment to nurturing future stars while maintaining a winning culture.
Thobile Msizazwe with coaches Zenay Jordaan, right, and Bongiwe Nhleko.
