KNYSNA NEWS - The Titans Women's Rugby Academy etched their name into South African rugby history last weekend, claiming the inaugural Betway 1st Division Club Championship national title and completing an undefeated season.
In a tense final against Potch Dorp (Leopards), the Titans managed a thrilling 20-19 victory, with flyhalf Cloe Adams calmly converting two late penalties to seal the win.
Potch Dorp, whose team featured over 90% of the players who had earlier stunned the SWD EaGirls, struck first, applying early pressure and scoring the opening try.
The Titans responded just before halftime with a well-worked try from Ruzanne George, converted by Adams, to level the scores.
With less than 10 minutes to play, Potch Dorp led 19-14, but in a show of nerves and precision under pressure, Adams slotted two late penalties to snatch victory and deliver the Titans their first-ever Betway 1st Division Club Championship title.
In the process, Cloe Adams earned a spot on the Betway Dream Team and former Springbok Fifteens and Sevens star Siviwe Basweni was named Titans Player of the Final.
Coaching pedigree
The Titans' success was built on exceptional preparation and experience within their coaching ranks.
Director of rugby, coach Ashin "Ash" Klein, fresh off winning the 2024 Women's Premier Division with the Bulls Daisies, brought championship pedigree to the side.
He was joined by coach Gerwyn Alexander, a three-time national u.21 competition winner with Griquas, whose tactical insights proved invaluable throughout the campaign. "Becoming national champions as we celebrate our 20th anniversary is something truly special," said coach Ash.
"This group worked incredibly hard and deserves this title. I'm deeply grateful for the vital role coach Gerwyn played in our success. Today, I also remember my great friend Rodrique 'Coacha Pieta' Petersen, who was with the Academy from day one. This title is for you, gone but never forgotten."
History of the club
Founded two decades ago, the Titans Women's Rugby Academy is the second-oldest women's rugby club in South Africa, with a mission to nurture elite female rugby talent from the SWD region.
Their 2025 national triumph marks a historic first for SWD women's rugby; the first time a team from the region has competed in and returned home as national club champions.
With their unbeaten season and championship crown, the Titans have not only made history but have also reignited the spirit of women's rugby across the Southern Cape.
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