The first whistle is almost set to blow for the 2024 Varsity Netball tournament with the opening bumper weekend (1-2 September 2024) taking place at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg. Wits captain Panashe Chiranga says they are rearing to go in front of their home crowd in what will only their second campaign.
“We are looking to improve on our maiden experience in 2023 and placing higher on the log, showcasing a high calibre of play in our game, and to do so consistently throughout the tournament.”
Chiranga has been impressed with the way the team preparations have gone so far, with the team also possessing more versatility this year.
“We’ve seen training intensity and frequency increasing in preparation for the tournament. It's been tough but necessary to get the team focused and committed to the goal ahead.”
The Wits team, coached by the experienced former Protea captain and coach Elsje Jordaan, will be fighting to do better than last season, which has meant they’ve had to bolster their squad to improve their chances.
“We have several debutants, namely Oratile Mokone, Zanele Soviya, Philasande Ntuli, Elmarie Vusieke and Daniella Monyepao who have joined the Wits family, having represented their various schools and provinces last year. I’m excited for their introduction into the Varsity Netball scene,” says Chiranga.
The Wits skipper also shared her feelings on the impact Varsity Netball has had in the country, with an added message for the rest of the teams in this year’s competition.
“Varsity Netball has a massive impact because it provides playing opportunities for the student athletes that are of a semi-professional level, offering development for the TNL (Telkom Netball League) and feeding into the national set-ups.
“And lastly, I think the netball community should have their eyes fixated on the Wits team this year because we are coming in hot!”
Wits will get the 2024 Varsity Netball underway when they take to the court against UFS Kovsies at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg on Sunday 1 September at 13:00. For a full fixture list, click HERE.
PROVISIONAL SQUAD (subject to change): Panashe Chiranga, Esther Botha, Oratile Mokone, Zanele Soviya, Philasande Ntuli, Daniella Monyepao, Amy Horn, Alix Horn, Shani Mokken, Kagisho Itholeng, Elmarie Vusieke, Liani Gilmour, Giada Prinsloo, Thato Booi, Tshiamo Mokgosi, Thandiwe Mokiti.
by S’fiso Nyawo
.png)
Comments