WomenBoks' Sevens Face Relegation: Focus Shifts to Olympic Preparations

Dazel recognized the challenges that contributed to the team's inconsistency throughout the season, which culminated in their crucial loss to Spain.

Springbok Women's Sevens head coach Renfred Dazel expressed disappointment after the team's relegation from the HSBC SVNS, acknowledging the need to regroup and shift their focus towards the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. The South African team lost their core status following a defeat to Spain in Madrid, necessitating a return to the World Rugby Challenger Series through the continental qualification route.

Reflecting on the Relegation

Dazel recognized the challenges that contributed to the team's inconsistency throughout the season, which culminated in their crucial loss to Spain. He mentioned the absence of a pre-season and player availability issues but emphasized that dwelling on these factors won't resolve their current situation.

"This is not the first time we lost our status and I know how despondent everyone is feeling," Dazel said. He highlighted the support from SA Rugby, which enables the team to remain competitive and strive to qualify for the Challenger Series by winning the Africa Cup Sevens in September.

Looking Ahead to the Olympics

Despite the setback, Dazel is excited about the opportunity to compete in the Paris Olympics. He emphasized the importance of making the most of this special moment and preparing thoroughly for the event.

"We will take a week or so off to clear our heads and then start our Olympic preparations in all earnest," Dazel stated. The team plans to focus on finding new talent and creating opportunities for sevens rugby to ensure a strong performance in future competitions.

The Match Against Spain

In the decisive match, the South Africans struggled under the pressure, conceding four tries and failing to find their footing. Spain, energized by their home crowd, dominated from the start. Juana Stella and Paula Requena scored tries that put Spain in the lead by halftime. South Africa's handling errors and defensive penalties hindered their performance, allowing Spain to secure their place in the world series for the next season.

Moving Forward

Dazel acknowledged the need for a strategic approach to rebuild and prepare for the Africa Cup. The team's focus will be on identifying and integrating new players, improving game strategies, and addressing the issues that plagued their performance this season.

"This is not the first time we lost our status and I know how despondent everyone is feeling. Thanks to SA Rugby's support of the sevens programme, we can remain competitive and qualify to play in the Challenger Series by winning the Africa Cup Sevens in September," Dazel reiterated.

The Springbok Women's Sevens now face the challenge of turning their Olympic appearance into a platform for future success, aiming to rebuild their status and come back stronger in the sevens rugby circuit.