Spar Proteas sponsor has opened up about the overall performance of the national team at the 2023 Netball World Cup, saying it is proud of the way the team competed.
Needless to say, coach Norma Plummer and her troops did not live up to expectations, as they failed to qualify for semi-finals, finishing in position six behind Uganda.
South Africa were one of the favourites alongside New Zealand, Jamaica, and Australia, with the latter crowned world champions after beating England in the final.
During a question-and-answer session with Sunday World recently, Spar national sponsorship & events manager Charlene Subbarayan said the sponsor is proud of how the team fared despite not making a podium finish.
“Having been involved in this first Netball World Cup to be hosted in Africa was an immense privilege,” Subbarayan said.
“No matter the outcome, the Spar Proteas are tremendous athletes who gave their all, and we’re proud of them.
“Being part of the Spar Proteas’ journey fills us with pride and joy, and our commitment to supporting women in sports has never been stronger.”
South Africa hosted the world cup on African soil for the first time and one of the Proteas’ best performances came against New Zealand when they fought for a last-minute 48-48 draw after Phumza Maweni and Nichole Taljaard’s heroics.
Subbarayan said Spar is delighted to have been part of women’s sport in the country and seeks to continue its commitment beyond women’s month.
“As the longest-standing sponsor of women’s sport in the country, the support we offer to the Spar Proteas has been unwavering for over 25 years,” she said.
“We understand the significance of empowering women in sports, and our commitment goes beyond just financial aid.
“We also provide assistance covering marketing, advertising and travel expenses for major international competitions such as the Commonwealth Games and previous Netball World Cups, where the Proteas consistently demonstrated their excellence.”
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