South Africa boasts a rich sporting heritage, and for many, the name Els is synonymous with golfing excellence. Ernie Els, "The Big Easy," is a legend of the sport, with four Major championships and countless accolades to his name. But in the world of rugby, a new Els is carving her own path – Samantha Els, a rising star in the national women's team.
At 24, Samantha's journey is a testament to forging your own identity. While acknowledging her father's incredible achievements, she's determined to be known for her own skills on the pitch, not just her family name.
"Rugby is an expression of my own identity outside my dad's legacy," Samantha says. "Don't get me wrong, I'm incredibly proud of him, but I have my own dreams on the field."
Her path to rugby wasn't a typical one. Unlike many future Springboks (the South African national men's rugby team) who start young, Samantha was more of a bookworm. "I was a self-proclaimed nerd," she laughs. "My weekends were spent with my nose in a book, not a rugby ball."
However, a chance encounter at a high school sports day sparked a passion she never knew existed. "A friend convinced me to try out for the touch rugby team," Samantha recalls. "The moment I stepped onto the field, I was hooked. There was a sense of camaraderie, strategy, and physicality that I loved."
Her natural talent blossomed quickly. Samantha's coaches were impressed by her athleticism, strategic mind, and fierce determination. "She had a real fire in her belly," remembers her high school coach, Sarah Miller. "She was willing to learn, work hard, and never shy away from a challenge."
That fire propelled Samantha through the ranks. She excelled at the provincial level, catching the eye of national selectors. In 2022, at the young age of 22, she received her first call-up to the Springbok Women's Sevens team, a faster-paced and more dynamic version of the traditional 15-a-side game.
The international stage wasn't without its challenges. The physicality and speed of the game were a step up, and the pressure of representing her country was immense. But Samantha, with her characteristic grit, rose to the occasion. "It was tough," she admits. "But I learned from every mistake, every missed tackle. My teammates were incredibly supportive, and I knew I had to keep pushing myself to be better."
Her dedication paid off. Samantha became a key player in the Sevens team, showcasing her impressive tackling skills,sharp passing, and ability to read the game. Her performances weren't lost on coaches, who saw her potential extending beyond the shorter format.
In 2024, Samantha received the ultimate honor – selection for the Springbok Women's 15-a-side team. This was a significant moment, not just for her career, but for South African rugby as a whole. Women's rugby has been steadily growing in popularity, and Samantha's rise serves as a powerful inspiration to young girls across the nation.
"It's an incredible feeling to wear the green and gold," Samantha says, her voice filled with pride. "I know there are many young girls out there looking up to me, and I want to show them that anything is possible. You don't have to follow a traditional path. If you have a dream, chase it with all your heart."
With the Women's Rugby World Cup on the horizon, Samantha is focused on helping her team achieve greatness. But beyond the immediate goals, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy. "I want to inspire the next generation of South African rugby players, both girls and boys," she says. "I want to show them that rugby is for everyone, and that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve your dreams, no matter who your father is."
Samantha Els' story is one of resilience, talent, and the relentless pursuit of one's passion. It's a testament to the power of stepping outside your comfort zone and carving your own path. As she continues to excel on the international stage,there's no doubt that Samantha Els, the daughter of the Big Easy, will write her own chapter in the illustrious history of South African sport.
0 Comments