Winger Patience Mokone was one of the standout figures in the Bok Women's Sevens team's romp to the Africa Cup title in Nairobi last year.
The Africa Cup has long been the launchpad for Springbok greats. Stars like Nadine Roos, Mathrin Simmers, Rights Mkhari, and Eloise Webb all used this competition to announce themselves on the international stage before becoming World Series regulars.
Now, with qualification for next January’s HSBC SVNS 2 already locked in, head coach Cecil Afrika is using this weekend's tournament in Nairobi to test the next generation.
From former hockey talent Isabella Nel and ex-water polo player Kiera Bowker to four Junior Springboks and returning winger Voice Ndou – who previously turned out for Zimbabwe – the squad is packed with fresh athletic talent.
But while they are new to this level, they are stepping into a tournament South Africa has dominated for years, lifting the African title more than 10 times.
Vianca Boer captains the side as one of only four players alongside Jané Mulder, Shanidiné Bezuidenhout, and Owami Mohuli with HSBC SVNS experience.
They will guide an eager group that includes recent Junior Bok standouts Haylee Hardneck, Siphumelele Mdlalose, Tereské Kabuika-Ilunga, and Lilitha Vakalisa.
"Team selection has never been easy," said Afrika. "We opted for a younger group of players and will use this opportunity to develop them in and expose them to an international tournament where they will be tested in many ways.
"This is part of our pathway plan. Those who excelled in training, had the right attitude, dedication and discipline all got the nod. We are not going there to lose; our focus is on preparation, unity, and delivering our best."
The South Africans – who whitewashed all their rivals on their way to the title in Nairobi last year, beating hosts Kenya 22-0 in the final – will face Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda in Pool A this weekend.
Springbok Women's Sevens 'A': 1 Shanidiné Bezuidenhout, 2 Jané Mulder, 3 Owami Mohuli, 4 Voice Ndou, 5 Vianca Boer (c), 6 Isabella Nel, 7 Hayley Hardneck, 8 Kiera Bowker, 9 Lilitha Vakalisa, 10 Siphumelele Mdlalose, 11 Marli George, 12 Tereské Kabuika-Ilunga.