In recent months, Netball South Africa has been marred by negative publicity and controversy, but the Spar Proteas have since brought some light and something positive to talk about, as they have introduced fresh talent that is tipped to set the netball scene alight.
The timing could not be better, as it aligns with the euphoria of Women’s Month that has captivated and enveloped the country.
Coach Jenny van Dyk named her squad that will be travelling to New Zealand and Australia to take on the two top-ranked teams in the world next month and October.
“This step [introduction of new players] was needed to give players a fair opportunity to compete for a position in the team, but also because the majority of our core group players play in the UK and other national leagues, so we needed to see all the identified players in combination with the top players before making the final decision,” Van Dyk said.
“If you are going to take on the best in the world, you need players with experience, grit, and a fierce, fighting spirit, and we believe within our core group that is exactly what we have.”
With the absence of Boitumelo Mahloko, Syntiche Kabuya, and Veteran defender Karla Pretorius, Van Dyk decided to integrate three new players who caught the eye of staunch netball fans during this season’s Telkom Netball League (TNL).
The exciting defensive trio will join the likes of Rolene Streutker, TNL Player of the Tournament Tarle Mathe, star player Kamogelo Maseko, and midcourt dynamo Khanyisa Chawane, who is the captain of the side.
Nozipho Ntshangase:
Meet Nozipho Ntshangase, who was born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal, in a small township called Nseleni. The 26-year-old goal defence earned herself a call-up after her impressive display at the TNL with Kingdom Stars and was one of the standout players.
“I am so excited to finally be a part of the Spar Proteas, it is a dream come true for me,” an elated Ntshangase told Sunday World.
“My aim now is to learn as much as I can from the coaches and my teammates, and I want to add value by putting in the necessary effort that will contribute to the success of this team.”
Juanita van Tonder:
Dreams delayed are not dreams denied, and that is how Madibaz Netball goal keeper Juanita van Tonder describes her inclusion in the netball national team.
Hailing from Gqeberha, the 23-year-old said she has never been overseas before, and getting that opportunity through a game that she loves, makes it more special.
“The upcoming test in New Zealand and Australia is so exciting for me. I have never been overseas, and Australia has always been one of the places I want to go to,” Van Tonder said.
“But being selected for the South African netball national team was a dream that I had since I started loving the game at a very young age… to just play at the highest level with the best in the world.
“So, I am finally realising my dream, and it still feels surreal. I remember when they [Van Dyk] called out my name, I was shocked, happy, and almost burst into tears because it was a big moment for me to represent my country.
Entle Futshane:
Entle Futshane was also one of the players who was impactful at the TNL and caught the eye of Van Dyk and her assistant coach, Zanele Mdodana.
Reacting to her national team selection, Futshane said what makes it even more special is that everything happened in Women’s month and she is honoured to be a part of the group.
“It is such an honour and privilege for me to be selected in the Spar Proteas team for the upcoming tests. The timing of the selection in Women’s month makes it even more special,” Futshane said.
“This is one of the sports where women can be proud of and stand tall, be themselves and be proud of what they have achieved.”
The Proteas will first take on New Zealand in a three-Test series on 21, 24, and 28 September in Auckland, Napier, and Invercargill, before heading to Australia to face the 12-time world champions in a three-Test series on 4, 8, and 12 October in Bendigo, Wollongong, and Adelaide.
