Netball South Africa unveiled the first 2024 Spar Proteas squad under the leadership of newly appointed coach Jenny van Dyk and assistant coach Zanele Mdodana.
The announcement, made on Monday, marks a significant milestone as the team gears up for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia.
Following a series of retirements within the national team, including that of long-serving captain Bongiwe Msomi, a rigorous selection process saw 30 players convene at a training camp in Stellenbosch early this year to fight for a place in the new-look team.
Van Dyk and Mdodana trimmed the squad to 15 players, which reflects an exciting blend of seasoned players and emerging talent.
A mix of local and overseas-based players
The final squad consists of seven domestic and eight overseas-based players.
Some of the notable members of the new squad that were integral to the 2023 Netball World Cup held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre include stalwarts Karla Pretorius, Ine-Mari Venter, Khanyisa Chawane, and Elmere Van der Berg.
Reflecting on her final squad selection, Van Dyk emphasised the gravity of the selection process, acknowledging the dedication and aspirations of all players involved.
“We understand that we are not only shaping a team but nurturing dreams. As we embark on a new season, the selected players are primed and motivated to excel,” she said.
The coaching duo’s inaugural match will see the Spar Proteas lock horns with Malawi in August, a fixture renowned for its intensity and competitiveness.
Inaugural alignment camp
Ahead of the season, the team will convene in May for an inaugural alignment camp, with locally based players and training partners set to participate.
In anticipation of the upcoming Telkom Netball League, several players from local teams, including the Free State Crinums, Gauteng Jaguars, and Fireballs, are poised to showcase their prowess.
Overseas-based players are slated to join the squad at the end of July in preparation for the clash against Malawi.
Netball SA president Cecilia Molokwane has since wished the players all the best and emphasised that this year will be crucial in building up towards the upcoming World Cup.
Spar Protea 2024 final squad:
Ine-Mari Venter; Rolene Streutker; Elmere van der Berg; Kamogelo Maseko; Owethu Ngubane; Nichole Taljaard; Khanyisa Chawane; Refiloe Nketsa; Tarle Mathe; Jeante Strydom; Jamie van Wyk; Boitumelo Mahloko; Karla Pretorius; Nicola Smith; and Ane Retief
Spar Protea training partners:
Tinita van Dyk; Muhluri Hlatshwayo; Sian Moore; Nomfundo Mngomezulu; Shannen Bartlett; Sanmarie Visser; and Syntiche Kabuya
