19 April 2024, Potchefstroom – With seven (7) days to go until the 2024 edition of the Telkom Netball League, TNL, takes centre stage. Teams from the North-West Province – Flames and Tshukudu had their send-off function in Potchefstroom.
Netball South Africa added a new team in the TNL to bring the number of teams to 16.
New kids on the block Tshukudu, are excited at the prospect of being the second team to represent Bokone Bophirima during this year’s TNL.
Tshukudu’s coach Kealeboga Mabeko hailed the addition of a second team, stating that this has increased excitement and provides an opportunity to showcase talent from a province that is mostly rural.
“Having another team in the TNL has revived hope for the girl child and players around the province, this is an opportunity for our players to get the recognition they deserve and have a better chance to compete at the highest level”, said Mabeko.
Mabeko revealed that it was difficult to select the final team, however she is confident that the team has talented players who will make sure the team fights in Division Two.
“It was a difficult process to select the team because we had a pool of talented players who are on form and play different styles to choose from. Not to undermine anyone or any team, but I am confident that we will bring the rhino magic on the court”, she added.
Meanwhile, Fames General Manager, Lizelle Erasmus echoed Mabeko’s sentiments regarding the opportunity that lies ahead for players.
“Oh wow! We are incredibly excited; it’s been a long time coming and we can’t wait to showcase our talent.
“We have a great mix of players that come with so much enthusiasm, some newbies and experienced players. We never underestimate any opponent but promise that they should not underestimate us either”, said Erasmus.
North-West Netball Chairperson Kutlwano Moroole shared her excitement about having a second team from Bokone Bophirima.
Moroole also announced the provincial team’s campaign heading to the TNL.
“We have an exciting campaign that will see the Flames teach people about veld fires, while Tshukudu’s – which means Rhino (one of the Big 5), the campaign aims to focus on curbing rhino poaching, the persistent threat posed by poachers to these animals has necessitated more drastic measures to protect the endangered mammals”, she emphasised.
The 11th edition of the TNL will be hosted in Gauteng, at the Ellis Park Arena on the following dates:
1st Power Week; April 26 – 5 May
2nd Power Week: May 31 – June 5
3rd Power Week: June 13 – 19
Tshukudu squad
Meranda Busakwe, Reze Coetzer, Nadine Hefer, Anri Liebenberg, Gomolemo Mashiane, Johanne Meyer, Mmampho Molefe, Keamogetswe Ngobeni, Tshenolo Poenyane, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Vivian Venancio, Izaan Snyman.
Flames Team
Sindile Chauke, Jade Egwatu, Martine Jordaan, Lethabo Komane, Jomari Lubbe Amori Matthee, Tlotlang Mokomela, Neo Mosweu, Nicci Oosthuizen, Sunel Smit Favour Umeh, Visser Sanmarie.
