KAIWHANA Rugby World over the last three years, through our blog, the website, two continents, numerous provinces and most importantly social media met some wonderful, passionate people that share our love for the game! Recently we highlighted the awesome work Coach Sompondo is doing in the Eastern Cape through his Grassroots Rugby Foundation.
Today we would like to introduce Monya Greyvenstein, a sports massage therapist that has an intense love for the game on all levels. She works full time with athletes and is an aspiring rugby agent too! So the saying rings true in this case that behind every successful player is a great woman! We caught up with her today and kindly enough she answered all our questions!
KAIWHANA Rugby World Interview:
KRW: Please tell us more about yourself, where were you born and where did you go to school?
I was Born in Bloemfontein , Free State Eastern Cape and matriculated at Oranje Girls school in Bloemfontein
KRW: What sports did you do at school? When and where did your love for the game of rugby develop?
I played hockey, tennis, and I played squash occasionally. Honestly, my love for rugby comes from my hero; my grand dad, Johan Olwage who was school captain at Grey College Rugby , Cricket and Athletics and later went on playing full back for Northern Transvaal as well as Free State . I guess it’s in my blood!
KRW: You are involved with the management of young rugby players, when did this start and how did you get involved in this?
My involvement started when I was a student at the North West University and Coach Andre Tredoux (now under 19 Cheetah coach) was kind enough to involve me in his team, the under 19 Leopards at that time. Being involved, I assisted with retrieving information on players they wanted to recruit, as well as creating motivational structure of his team.
KRW: Which players have, and are you currently representing?
I have never officially represented , as I am not an accredited agent, but I have assisted several young players on deciding to which union they should go. A lot of guys only consider the money and how big the contract is and never really consider the possibility of other players already recruited in the same position, actual game-time, and possibly studying to obtain a degree. I am very approachable, and they do find it easier to speak to me as I’m not that intimidating, feminine bonus!!! I am in a very nice position doing this considering that I don’t have to get players for certain teams. I must say it is rather nice to be honest. I also managed to get sponsorships for a few young players such as; Jesse Kriel, EW Viljoen, Jurie Linde, Henco Greyling, Ruwellyn Isbell, Ramone Samuels
KRW: Tell us more about the clubs and unions you have and are currently involved with?
I am Currently involved with the Pukke’s ( North-West University
KRW: As a female wanting to break into a male dominated industry do you feel you have been getting the support you need?
Honestly it is really hard, but there are a few people like Andre Tredoux who has always been supportive and always tries to promote me. It is especially hard seeing as older generations firmly believe that it is suited for men instead. I just believe at the end of the day that hard work will be rewarded!
KRW: What are your current ambitions and aspirations with regards to the industry you are trying to break into?
I’m currently completing my personal training course and will continue being actively involved where ever I’m given the opportunity to do so. I believe that there are so many aspects to an athlete, and that there are people who call themselves representatives but only attend to the money making parts of the industry, rather than looking after the players who signed with them.
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Just to stay loyal to whomever gives you an opportunity, not to be intimidated by the fact that is a male dominated industry and to ALWAYS know where to draw the line….being a girl and all...
KAIWHANA RUGBY WORLD WISHES YOU THE BEST OF LUCK WITH YOUR FUTURE!