Madibaz co-captains ready to make Varsity Netball 2024 a memorable one

Senior Madibaz players Mothira Mohammad and Siya Dingiswayo are eager to make their final Varsity Netball fling a memorable one.

They have been named co-captains for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament which kicks off on Sunday 1 September at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg.

At 25 years of age, Mohammad will no longer qualify for the age-restricted competition next year, while 23-year-old Dingiswayo is finishing up her studies.

“It has been an incredible journey at Madibaz,” Mohammad, who is a long-time member of the institution’s high-performance programme, says. “I am very grateful.

 “One of the lessons that I have learnt is to never let pressure get to you. When you do feel a bit of stress, stay calm and do the basics well. I’ve realised that it is more beneficial not to overthink on court and to trust the skills and abilities you have worked on.”

Mohammad says she looks forward to managing her troops alongside Dingiswayo, whom she describes as a vibrant leader and good communicator on defence.

Dingiswayo agrees.

“I feel that our different personalities will work hand-in-hand to benefit the team.”

It is Dingiswayo’s third Varsity Netball tournament and she confesses to it being a “proper learning curve” that has taught her more than just excelling at netball.

“It’s been a privilege to play for Madibaz because my game and character have grown during this time. Besides progressing in life-related matters, I have learnt how to read the game better and improved my communication on court.”

Even with a plan in place, Dingiswayo feels they need to be prepared for all eventualities.

“If the plan you are given does not work out, it is how you adapt to the situation that will set you apart from the rest. My mind-set is that when the going gets tough, I’m going to be tougher.”

Madibaz will face North-West University, University of Johannesburg and UP-Tuks during the opening weekend of Varsity Netball.

The first match of the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament for Madibaz is against NWU on Sunday 1 September at 19:00 at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg. For a full fixture list, click HERE.

PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Kaylin Coetzer, Anke Britz, Mothira Mohammad, Hanniska van Vuuren, Edon Snyman, Erin Hartland, Inganathi Sapepa, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Kelly du Toit, Jeannique Rossouw, Tashlyn van Schoor, Bronwyn Goosen, Angel Mlambo, Nicole Lister, Singwa Murhombo, Balungile Mgoqi.