Aug 19, 20232 min read

Varsity Netball 2023 team previews and squads - UJ and UWC

Get ready for an exhilarating showdown on the courts as Varsity Netball 2023 kicks off at Wits University on 20 August. The anticipation is palpable as the top eight university teams from across the country converge for a fierce competition to claim the coveted title. The echoes of last year's battles still resonate, with the memory of UJ's valiant journey to the semi-finals and their unfortunate defeat against eventual champions Maties. Notably, the Orange Army's resounding triumph over defending champions Kovsies in the group stages left spectators in awe. UWC managed only a single victory last year, but have bolstered their ranks with several new players eager to make their mark on the courts.

UJ

After captaining South Africa at the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town, UJ head coach Bongi Msomi says she’s now ready for the action of Varsity Netball.

“Preparations are going well, the group is excited and looking forward to the start of the Varsity Netball. Our expectations for the tournament is to play and to use the opportunity to grow on and off the court as a group as well as compete against good teams. We want to play good netball.”

According to Msomi Varsity Netball is very important for the national system.

“The high performance system at varsity level helps with the thorough preparations of athletes on and off the court which plays a huge role in developing elite athletes. Games are also broadcastwhich is similar to what happens at national level. It also helps athletes to be part of continuous selections and trials.”

UJ squad (subject to change): Henlize Basson, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, Owethu Ngubane, Zene de Waal, Jade Niemand, Minentle Mayekisa, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Zanell Blignaut, Londeka Buthelezi, Keneilwe Seopa, Sanelisiwe Ntobela, Cornelia Mupenda, Yanke Broodryk, Mukhatshelwa Tshisikhawe, Boitumelo Mahloko, Alexandra Meimaris.

UWC

UWC head coach Vanessa Lingeveldt says her team have one objective for the Varsity Netball tournament – to play good quality netball with enjoyment.

“Preparations have been going well. We ensure that players trained with intensity throughout training sessions and also recover well. We have exciting young players that will bring a balance and a different aspect to the game.”

Lingeveldt says she is super excited of the journey ahead and is looking forward to the Varsity Netball tournament.

“After the World Cup, [Varsity Netball] will certainly give recognition to players’ performance.”

UWC squad (subject to change): Nashitah Africa, Courtleigh Behr, Kaylynn-Joy Brand, Roné Carstens, Amber Coraizin, Renisha Daniels, Chane Engelbrecht, Shevonne Hoffman, Adri Kannemeyer, Leandré Ketch, Ané Louw, Liyema Mrali, Shani Pick, Liandré Schoeman, Wiandi Van der Merwe, Kristin Van der Ross.