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South Africa’s netballers aim high
January 13, 2025
South Africa's 'Spar Proteas' netball team are aiming to burst the Sunshine Girls' bubble in their upcoming three-match series, with games slated for January 18, 22nd and 25th at the National Indoor Sports Centre.
The number six-ranked South Africa arrived in good form after winning African Netball Cup in December, with captain Khanyisa Chawane capturing the player of the tournament award, while teammate and goal shooter Elmere Van Der Berg claimed the best shooter award.
Jennifer Van Dyk, head coach of the team, stated that they are focused on making life tough for the home team.
"It's actually a very important series for us. Jamaica is currently ranked third and that's what we need, that competitiveness and we expect that. We know they're a very strong team but we're here to win and give our best," she stated.
While the head-to-head stats read three victories for the 'Star Proteas' over 18 games, Van Dyk revealed that she has identified loopholes in the Jamaica team that they're ready to exploit.
"We've identified a lot of areas and obviously one of the main thing that stands out is that the number one and two shooters are out with injuries. We know on the defensive end that's where the trouble is as we've studied them a lot and we have a couple of plans up our sleeves to make sure that we can counter it," she added.
February will mark one year since Van Dyk's appointment as head coach of the team and she explained that this will be her first real challenge.
"I've only had two series so it's been a slow and frustrating start. However, I have a lot of plans with a lot of young players and I have time to work with all of them. We haven't been tested to the top of our abilities so this will be our first real test," she believes.
Captain Khanyisa Chawane says she's fully focused on the task at hand.
"I'm looking forward to the team performing really well against Jamaica. Yes, it's going to be tough but I'm looking forward to the great matches coming up."
Chawane added that winning the African Netball Cup was a big morale booster and hopes they will be able to build momentum.
"It really gave us some confidence showing that we're gelling as a team and how well we're playing. This will help us to continue build on what we've started. As a team we don't give up and we will give each other a hard time," she noted.
