Tapiwa Lloyd Mafura, born on 11 April 1996 in Hwange, Zimbabwe, is a promising rugby union player who plays as a fullback or wing for the Golden Lions in the Currie Cup and the Lions in the United Rugby Championship. Mafura made his Currie Cup debut for the Free State Cheetahs in Round Four of the 2019 Currie Cup against the Golden Lions. Known for his versatility, explosive speed and resilience on the field, Tapiwa has become a key player in both domestic and international competitions. We sat down with him to hear how he balances the demands of his training, game-day prep, and recovery. He also shares how he stays resilient both on and off the field.
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Treating Your Body Like a High-Performance Machine
When it comes to fitness and performance, Tapiwa follows one simple rule: “Treat your body like a car.” He compares his approach to maintaining a vehicle—ensuring it’s well-kept, fuelled, and always ready to perform when needed. “After a game, I feel drained, and I always make sure I take care of my body to recover properly,” he says. “It’s about ensuring the small details are taken care of so I can perform well again next time.” This approach drives his commitment to recovery and staying in peak condition. It enables him to be ready for whatever comes his way on the field.
Finding the Balance: Strength, Speed and Endurance
Balancing strength, speed, and endurance in a training routine is no easy feat. Tapiwa has a method that works. “I’m honest with myself about how I feel each day,” he explains. “If I need to work on strength, speed, or endurance, I communicate that with my coaches, and they’ll tailor the workouts accordingly.” This self-awareness ensures he’s always improving while giving his body the attention it needs on any given day.
Game-Day Prep: From Morning to Kickoff
A typical game day for Tapiwa is meticulously planned, with no detail left to chance. “If our game is at 2 o’clock, we meet at the stadium at 10,” he says. The day begins with a healthy breakfast. It is followed by a careful routine to ensure he’s prepared mentally and physically for the game. “We start with some stretching and light warm-up exercises, followed by a pre-match meal and massages to get the body ready for action,” he shares.
Tapiwa’s game-day routine also includes plenty of time for relaxation, giving him a chance to unwind before the high-stakes kickoff. “An hour and a half before the game, we head to the locker room for final prep, and then it’s go time.”
Recovery Rituals: Ice Baths and Pool Splashes
After the intensity of a match, Tapiwa’s recovery is just as important as the game itself. “I get into an ice bath for two to three minutes to help with recovery, followed by a quick splash in the pool,” he reveals.
“The next day, I make sure to hit the pool again to cool off and feel better.” If his body still isn’t feeling right, Tapiwa makes sure to consult with his medical team. This is to ensure he’s fully recovered and ready for the week ahead.
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Resilience: A Lesson On and Off the Field
Rugby has taught Tapiwa many lessons, but one stands out above the rest: resilience. “Rugby has taught me the importance of resilience, which helps me in life off the field as well,” he says. “Whenever I face a tough day or challenging situation, I tap into that resilience I’ve built in rugby.” This mental toughness has shaped his approach to both his professional career and personal life. It enables him to face challenges head-on with determination and focus.
