|
Angelique Nzabanita
Background
Angelique Nzabanita, was born in 1990 in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. Her first experience of the game was in 2004. She initially thought it was a rough game and not fit for her. She credits Heavy Hategekimana (current Assistant National Technical Director) for having introduced her to the game. "Heavy introduced me to the game. He first saw me in football. He saw that I was fast and strong as compared to the girls who were playing rugby by then and felt I could manage too."
Apart from her own hesitation, her parents did not encourage her at first. However, after a few times of watching from the sidelines, she started to train as well and she really enjoyed the game. "One day, I invited my mother to one of my training sessions and since then she has been very supportive."
Problems facing rugby in Rwanda
Angelique says the main problem is the lack of consistent players and this affects the growth of her talents and those of the few who try to be available. She says one of the main causes of inconsistent numbers is the fact that rugby is quite demanding. "I continue playing because I can manage to get myself some stuff like boots and training clothes. Others even play barefoot and in their only clothes. This discourages many."
Angelique adds that another major draw back is the fact that Rwandese in general don't understand rugby. "The fact that there's no rugby pitch and there are no regular games makes sensitising the game to public even more challenging."
Two wishes
1) “There is need for more technical training in rugby so that we can play better.”
2) "I wish I could play against an international team.”
Why she keeps playing rugby
"I just love the game and the way it's played. I also like the fact that it improves one's strength levels and fitness. Most importantly, one gets to meet more people, get friends and exposure."
She mentioned National Team's player in the men's team, Eric Mbarushimana as someone who taught her most of the rugby she knows. "Eric taught me a lot. Others who have been a motivation include Ernestine Uwimana who plays hooker and Udaya Mwanaidi who plays centre."
Achievements
1) Angelique was top scorer in the just concluded CAR Womens Rugby 7s tournament held in
Kampala 24th June 2006.
2) Angelique was voted ‘Most Valuable Player’ in April 2006 in the Second edition of the
Kyadondo Women's tournament. | 
