The Telkom Netball Championship (TNC) is set to return to Pretoria from 24-28 June, displaying the best young netball talent from across South Africa. Hosted at Hoerskool Waterkloof, this prestigious event, launched in partnership with Telkom, Netball South Africa (NSA), and the South African Schools Netball (SASN), aims to identify, nurture, and advance the careers of aspiring netball players nationwide.
Launched in 2021, the Telkom Netball Championship was conceived to address a critical challenge in South African netball: the transition of players from high school to university. Historically, many talented players were lost in this transition, hindering the growth of the sport. The TNC provides a robust platform for players under 19 to showcase their skills, ensuring that university scouts can identify and recruit these promising athletes. This seamless progression pathway is designed to prevent young talent from being lost in the system.
The TNC serves as a crucial steppingstone for young players aiming to join the Telkom Netball League (TNL), South Africa’s premier semi-professional netball competition. Since Telkom became the official sponsor of the TNL in 2019, the league has flourished, producing top-tier players who represent South Africa on national and international stages, including the SPAR Proteas, FAST5 and Under-21 teams.
The impact of the TNC on South African netball is evident. For the 2024 TNL season, 26 players who participated in the TNC have advanced to compete in the TNL, representing nine different teams. This transition highlights the effectiveness of the TNC in preparing young athletes for higher levels of competition.
Sanmarie Visser, named Best Defender of the Tournament at TNL and a player for the North West Flames, reflects on her journey: “It is always an honour to don the green and gold and represent your country. None of this would have been possible without the TNC. It was here that I honed my skills and developed leadership qualities, serving as the captain of my team in 2022.”
Another notable player, Phophi Nemantangari, captained the national team and was named Player of the Tournament at TNL, is now a star player for the defending TNL champions, the Gauteng Jaguars, Phophi credits the TNC for her development: “The TNC is a fantastic tournament for high school girls who dream of playing at university and beyond. It provides invaluable experience and exposure, setting the foundation for future success.”
The TNC not only develops skilled players but also instils values of passion, sportsmanship, and perseverance. As Visser advises young netball enthusiasts: “Dream big, work hard, stay focused on your goals, and never give up. Surround yourself with positive influences, seek opportunities to gain experience, and always play with passion and sportsmanship. Believe in yourself and your abilities and enjoy every moment of your netball journey.”
As the TNC enters its third year, the continued partnership between Telkom, NSA, and SASN promises to strengthen the sport’s future in South Africa. With the Baby SPAR Proteas preparing for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar, the TNC remains a vital pipeline for nurturing talent and ensuring the sustained growth and success of South African netball.
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