Johannesburg, South Africa: Ekurhuleni has solidified its position as a powerhouse in South African male netball, securing their second consecutive national title in a nail-biting 58-54 victory against Johannesburg A at the Ellis Park Indoor Court. The intense final match highlighted the men’s game’s growing competitiveness and skill level.
Despite their reigning champion status, Ekurhuleni faced a challenging path to victory. An unexpected early loss to Capricorn (53-50) was a stark reminder that past success offers no guarantees.
“Winning the championship previously comes with pros and cons,” admitted Ekurhuleni coach Judy Rathethe. “We decided to come in level-headed, humble ourselves, and play as a team that wanted to win.” This focused approach proved effective as they fought their way back to the top.
Rathethe emphasised the crucial role of experienced coaches in developing male netball. “To grow, the sport needs coaches with more experience,” she stated, advocating for increased investment in coaching development.
Rising Competition and Future Stars
Sicelo Gamede, named player of the tournament, echoed his coach’s observations about the increasing level of competition. “Last year, we won all our games, but we had a bad start this year,” he noted. “This shows that the competition was a bit more intense.” Gamede expressed his pride in both his individual and the team’s performance and highlighted the importance of attracting young players to the sport. “We want to see male netball growing as much as the women’s game,” he declared. “We want to see male netball become like any other sport in Africa.”
Ekurhuleni captain Juan van den Heever revealed the team’s holistic approach to success, which extended beyond the court. “Since day one, we knew this was going to be a tough competition,” he shared. “We focused on building everyone on the court and off the court. In the evenings, we had our team meetings and our ice baths. During those moments, we discussed how we would progress as a team.”
Van den Heever also emphasised their responsibility to inspire future generations of male netball players. “This is a great opportunity we have as male netball,” he said. “We are setting the stage for future male netball players… We should just focus on what we do as male netball players and let the sport grow with each and every game we play.”
In the Under 23 category, Tshwane won 43-32 over Johannesburg A, while Cape Town secured third place after defeating West Rand 41-40.
Netball SA President Calls for Support
Netball South Africa president Cecilia Molokwane celebrated the remarkable growth of male netball. She highlighted the surge in participating teams, from a mere 13 in 2017 to over 60 this year, with over 1000 registered male players. This, she emphasised, reflects the growing acceptance and popularity of the sport among boys and men.
Molokwane believes South Africa is a global leader bridging the gap between male and female netball participation. She urged other countries to learn from their success in promoting the sport to boys and men.
“This is an eye-opener for that mother at home that any boy can play netball and be a national player,” Molokwane asserted. “I think we’re one of the countries in male netball that have closed the gap; the international community must learn from us. I know there are other countries that play netball but have no male netball. They must come and learn from us.”
Molokwane concluded with a passionate call for sponsors to invest in the future of male netball. “We’ve showcased incredible talent and skill in these championships,” she emphasised. “This is a prime opportunity for companies to partner with Netball SA and invest in the future of male netball.”
With Ekurhuleni leading the way, the future of male netball in South Africa appears bright. The increasing competition and the passion and dedication of players and coaches promise an exciting journey ahead for this dynamic sport.
Senior A Division Best Players Awards
Best Shooter – Lutendo Maiwashe (Johannesburg)
Best Mid-Court – Itumeleng Mohanoe (West Rand)
Best Defender – Edward Manyathela (Capricorn)
Player of the Tournament – Scelo Gamede (Ekurhuleni)
U23 A Division Best Players Awards
Best Shooter – Sabelo Sibuyi (Johannesburg)
Best Mid-Court – Samuel Mogudi (Cape Town)
Best Defender – Brandon van Wyk (Tshwane)
Player of the Tournament – Sbongimpilo Makhoba (Johannesburg)
