Adidas is thrilled to announce the release of the second episode of its original docu-series, "Remember My Name." This five-part series delves into the narratives of five distinguished female athletes, not only commemorating their remarkable accomplishments as South African athletes in their respective disciplines but also shedding light on the challenges faced by women in sports.
The second episode shines a spotlight on Quanita Bobbs, a field hockey player whose debut on the South African national squad occurred at the tender age of 18 in 2011. Bobbs currently boasts an impressive tally of 170 international caps to her name, steadfastly pursuing her aspiration of becoming a three-time Olympian.
In South Africa, hockey is acknowledged as an amateur sport, distinct from the professional status it holds in other parts of the world. Quanita is a proud advocate and believes in the future of South African Women’s hockey.
Quanita's journey into hockey commenced at the age of 10, and her trajectory has since led her to three World Cups, three Commonwealth Games, and two Olympic Games. With preparations in full swing, she is resolutely training to secure her spot on the squad and represent her nation for a third time at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Reflecting on her unwavering support system, Bobbs emphasizes the role her family plays in her accomplishments. Growing up within a sports-oriented family, she was inspired by her father's participation in hockey. Bobbs attributes her achievements to the guidance and encouragement she has received, stating, "My older brother has been an unwavering pillar of support, providing invaluable advice. Over the years, I've taken immense pride in achieving the goals I set for myself and making my family proud."
Among her career highlights, Bobbs cherishes the memory of her World Cup debut in The Hague in 2014, an exhilarating experience as a young player on the world stage. Another standout moment was leading the national anthem at the Olympic Games and captaining a game against Germany during the tournament, a deeply poignant and meaningful moment for her and her family.
Bobbs holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree with a major in marketing from the University of Stellenbosch. Balancing her academic pursuits, professional work, and rigorous hockey training, she emphasizes the challenges of excelling in a sport that lacks professional recognition and the dedication that is required.
When contemplating the significance of sports in her life, Quanita expounds, "Sport has changed my life. Without it, I wouldn't be the person I am today. Sport has bestowed upon me endless opportunities, enabling me to explore diverse cultures while learning the values of hard work and dedication. I'm living my passion, and I'm fully present in the moment."
Looking ahead to her post-hockey journey, Bobbs envisions a continued involvement in sports, with a particular focus on empowering and uplifting young girls to embrace sports. She is actively developing her own brand, devoted to empowering women in sports and inspiring young girls to pursue athletic endeavors. Bobbs firmly believes that sports impart invaluable life lessons and offers support during challenging times.