TUT ready to prove they belong with the elite in Varsity Netball

TUT is gearing up for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament filled with determination and a hunger to succeed. With a mix of fresh talent and experienced leadership, the Pretoria-based team is poised to make their mark on the competition.

Coach Emily Mathosa has set clear expectations for her team this season - to compete fiercely against some of the best players in the country.

"All they have to do is focus on themselves, stay consistent throughout the tournament.”

Preparation for the season has been intense and well-coordinated. Mathosa says she is confident in the team's readiness, noting that "preparation is going very well, and they have been training together as a team to ensure that everyone gets to understand what is expected of them on court."

This year, TUT's roster is brimming with new talent, with 90 percent of the players making their debut in Varsity Netball. Among these newcomers, a few standouts are expected to make a significant impact. Mathosa is particularly excited to see how Naledi Makoa, Yolanda Makhubela, Gomolemo Mashiane and Keamogetswe Ngobeni will perform on the big stage, as they bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to the team.

Leadership will be a crucial component of TUT's strategy, and the team will be captained by two players in Keamogetswe Ngobeni and Desiree Mohlala. Mathosa says they were chosen for their ability to lead both on and off the court.

"Though it’s Kea's debut to play in Varsity Netball, she played in the Telkom Netball League this year. Desiree has Varsity Netball experience, so I believe they understand what is expected of them on and off court. They will be able to guide the entire team.”

Varsity Netball is more than just a tournament, it’s a vital platform for showcasing emerging talent and serving as a breeding ground for the national team.

"Varsity Netball is one of the pathways where we get to see new talent that we don’t see in other national events of Netball South Africa," according to Mathosa.

TUT is first up against defending champions UP-Tuks on Sunday 1 September at 17:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE. 

PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Modjadji Mokgehle, Keamogetswe Ngobeni, Gomolemo Mashiane, Philile Bokwe, Naledi Makoa, Fhulufelo Nenzhelele, Katleho Motaung, Nokwanda Mbuyazi, Thembalethu Buthelezi, Nosibusiso Khwela, Bianca Nkalanga, Oageng Motileng, Mohlala Desiree, Yolanda Makhubela, Anele Kwaphuma, Mosima Mamabolo.