Like the great former number one American tennis player Billy Jean King would say, “Pressure is a privilege; it only comes to those who earn it,” and exciting Spar Proteas prospect Kamogelo Maseko is riding on that wave as she embarks on a special journey with the South African senior netball national team.
Maseko, 22, is one of 15 players who have cemented their place in the 2024 Spar Proteas squad that will usher in the new era under the new leadership of coach Jenny van Dyk and assistant coach Zanele Mdodana.
Last week, Netball South Africa unveiled the Spar Proteas squad, which has an exciting blend of seasoned players and emerging talent.
For Maseko, making the squad was a bittersweet moment, as she graduated days before and had to lay her grandfather to rest.
“Being named in the final squad was a roller-coaster for me because it was also my grandfather’s funeral the previous weekend, so I couldn’t really celebrate because I had mixed emotions,” Maseko told Sunday World.
“But above it all, I am filled with gratitude to be part of the Spar Proteas team. I am grateful.”
With the likes of former captain Bongiwe Msomi and Phumza Maweni now retired, the Soweto-born goal attack (GA) said being passed on the baton by SA netball greats is an opportunity that they need to grab with both hands.
“Already, the opportunity to represent your country is an honour and a privilege on its own, but being part of this new era of the Spar Proteas is a life-changing experience,” she said.
“It also gives us the opportunity to set our own standards, set our own boundaries, and rewrite our own history.
“I also just think the opportunity becomes limitless, and there is nothing holding us back. The older generation has already carved the path, and we need to play our part by setting ourselves up for success.”
“Yes, there is a lot of pressure, but that is just the beauty of the sport; there is no success that comes without pressure. For me, pressure is a privilege, and we need to embrace it,” she added.
