SPU’s Lidené Kruger earns national call-up to Springbok Women’s Sevens Training Squad

In a moment that embodies strength, resilience and the power of opportunity, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is beaming with pride as it celebrates the national call-up of one of its own, first-year student Lidené Kruger, to the Springbok Women’s Sevens Training Squad.

Kruger, a Sport bursary recipient and high-performance sport recruit at SPU, has been selected to attend the upcoming national training camp in Cape Town, which will take place from  August 3 to 15 2025 at the prestigious Stellenbosch Academy of Sport.

The University, which supplied the information for this story, has praised Kruger’s commitment and passion as she joins the ranks of South Africa’s most promising young rugby talents.

“It’s something I’ve dreamed of for so long,” Kruger said. “Being named to the Springbok Women’s Sevens training squad was an incredible moment. Honestly, it still feels surreal. The hard work, early mornings and overcoming setbacks have all led to this.”

Hard-fought perseverance

Kruger’s journey from a promising young athlete to a national-level rugby player has been shaped by more than just talent. Her rapid rise was noticed earlier this year when she was scouted and went on to establish herself as a core member of the Griquas Women’s Rugby Team. But her story is also one of hard-fought perseverance, marked by sacrifice, emotional hurdles, and a support network that believed in her every step of the way.

She paid special tribute to her coach, Claudia Franke, who played a pivotal role in her development as a player. “Coach Franke made me fall in love with rugby and helped me believe in myself,” Kruger explained. “That belief is everything.”

Kruger’s success is not without personal cost. Just two weeks ago, she faced the heartbreak of losing her grandmother, a figure she described as a pillar in her life. “That's been my biggest challenge this season. But every sacrifice now feels worth it,” she said.

A beacon for young female athletes

As Women’s Month unfolds across the country, Kruger’s achievement shines as a beacon for aspiring young female athletes, not just in Kimberley but across South Africa. “Never let where you come from define how far you can go,” she said when asked what message she had for young girls with similar dreams. “Work hard when no one is watching and surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams. Rugby is not just a sport. It’s a platform for growth and empowerment.”

SPU, which has invested significantly in the development of women’s sport, especially rugby, believes that Kruger’s story is a fitting example of how sport can transform lives when institutions, communities and mentors work together to support young women.

“We are incredibly proud of Lidené,” a university spokesperson shared. “She represents the values we hold dear: determination, humility, and excellence. We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of our coaching staff, lecturers and support teams who make it possible for student-athletes to thrive in both academics and sport.”

SPU and gender equity in sport

SPU continues to champion gender equity in sport by nurturing and developing female athletes like Kruger, ensuring that they are equipped with not only the skills to succeed on the field but also the education and life tools to flourish off it.

As Kruger heads to Cape Town to train with South Africa’s elite, her journey remains far from over. But for now, her story serves as a powerful reminder that with belief, resilience, and the right support, young women can break barriers and rise to national heights.

A statement from the university was big, and heartwarming.

"Sol Plaatje University congratulates Lidené Kruger on her national call-up and wishes her all the best as she represents the university, the Northern Cape, and the country on her journey toward wearing the green and gold jersey."