Bella's big leap: From school to international rugby
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Bella Howard, a talented Grade 10 learner from Kloof High School in Durban, is on the cusp of achieving her ultimate dream: representing South Africa in touch rugby.
She's been selected to join the South African Touch Boks team for the Youth Atlantic Touch Cup in Ireland in July.
This remarkable young athlete's journey in touch rugby began four years ago, and her standout performance at the Inter-Provincial Tournament in Cape Town last year earned her a place on the national team.
Bella's dedication and hard work have paid off, and she's already attended a national training camp as she prepares to compete against the best in the world.
Her sporting achievements extend far beyond touch rugby. She represented KwaZulu-Natal in soccer, playing for the U13A and U14 teams, and became the youngest student to earn a spot on her high school’s 1st netball team.
Through the South African Netball Coaching Academy, her netball skills have taken her abroad, with tours to Italy and the UK. In 2024, she captained the U15A KZN touch rugby team to a second-place finish in Cape Town.
Off the field, she continues to shine, achieving a 95% average in Grade 9 and 100% scores in Maths and Life Sciences in Grade 10.
However, Bella now needs support to make her dream a reality. She is looking for sponsorship from corporate organisations, businesses, and individuals to help with the financial requirements of the tour.
Every donation, big or small, would mean the world to her.
Bella's mother, Ghita, expressed their pride in her accomplishments, saying, "There are no words that can describe how proud we are of Bella and all that she has accomplished, especially at such a young age.
"Bella never ceases to amaze us, whether it's playing sports, cracking 100% in her exams, performing magic tricks or creating beautiful pieces of art... her talent is endless.
"What we are most proud of is what a kind, gentle and empathetic young lady Bella is. She is always willing to help; she always gives 200% and we are honoured to be her parents."
She's been selected to join the South African Touch Boks team for the Youth Atlantic Touch Cup in Ireland in July.
This remarkable young athlete's journey in touch rugby began four years ago, and her standout performance at the Inter-Provincial Tournament in Cape Town last year earned her a place on the national team.
Bella's dedication and hard work have paid off, and she's already attended a national training camp as she prepares to compete against the best in the world.
Her sporting achievements extend far beyond touch rugby. She represented KwaZulu-Natal in soccer, playing for the U13A and U14 teams, and became the youngest student to earn a spot on her high school’s 1st netball team.
Through the South African Netball Coaching Academy, her netball skills have taken her abroad, with tours to Italy and the UK. In 2024, she captained the U15A KZN touch rugby team to a second-place finish in Cape Town.
Off the field, she continues to shine, achieving a 95% average in Grade 9 and 100% scores in Maths and Life Sciences in Grade 10.
However, Bella now needs support to make her dream a reality. She is looking for sponsorship from corporate organisations, businesses, and individuals to help with the financial requirements of the tour.
Every donation, big or small, would mean the world to her.
Bella's mother, Ghita, expressed their pride in her accomplishments, saying, "There are no words that can describe how proud we are of Bella and all that she has accomplished, especially at such a young age.
"Bella never ceases to amaze us, whether it's playing sports, cracking 100% in her exams, performing magic tricks or creating beautiful pieces of art... her talent is endless.
"What we are most proud of is what a kind, gentle and empathetic young lady Bella is. She is always willing to help; she always gives 200% and we are honoured to be her parents."