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Physical fitness of elite women's rugby union players over a ...

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS<br />

I would like to acknowledge the support <strong>of</strong> the South African Rugby Union and Management<br />

<strong>of</strong> the Women’s National Rugby Team, especially Mahlubi Puzi who has provided me with a<br />

platform to grow as a Biokineticist. Not many pr<strong>of</strong>essionals get an opportunity to work with a<br />

National team from inception and to fulfill their childhood dream <strong>of</strong> representing their country<br />

at a World Cup.<br />

The <strong>players</strong> have not only had a pr<strong>of</strong>ound effect on me as a pr<strong>of</strong>essional but also as a man<br />

hence it was only fitting that I conducted my research study on this group <strong>of</strong> <strong>players</strong>. I admire<br />

their passion for the game, as not many people have the drive to pursue and live their passion<br />

despite being stigmatised by their own community.<br />

I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr Sue Bassett for her valuable guidance<br />

and input in putting together this thesis. In addition to Pr<strong>of</strong> Madsen (statistician) and<br />

Lungiswa Tsolekile (pro<strong>of</strong> reader) for their contribution towards the completion <strong>of</strong> this study.<br />

Finally, I would to like to thank my parents (Peter and Bongiwe) for their continuous love and<br />

sacrifices they have made in order for me to a great childhood and education.<br />

iii

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