Dr. Karabo Semenya
The mighty Free State Crinums narrowly defeated the Gauteng Jaguars 47-46 in the final match of the 2024 Telkom Netball League at Ellis Park Arena. The two rival teams kept the arena buzzing with tension, demonstrating their strength and skill with every play. Each pass was crucial, and every mistake was met with intense reactions from the crowd. The game was a nail-biter, but ultimately, the Jaguars fell just short, missing out on the R200 000 prize money.
Leading up to the finals, both teams were evenly matched. They played each other twice: the first game ended in a draw, and the Jaguars won the second encounter, only to be defeated in the finals when it mattered most. It was a tough evening for the Jaguars, but spectators from Gauteng appreciated the thrilling and intense netball match.
Councillor Lubabalo Magwentshu, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development said the tournament served as a pathway for promising players to gain selection for the national team or even secure lucrative overseas contracts.
“This was the first time hosting this event. It has enormous potential, and we are happy it was a success. We look forward to more tournaments. Supporting netball is the right thing to do as part of our contribution to women in sports and the local economy,” said Councillor Magwentshu.
Siyanda Mnukwa, Director of Sports, and Recreation for Johannesburg agreed that bringing the 2024 Telkom Netball League to the City was a valuable endeavour.
“We are grateful that Netball South Africa trusted us to host this wonderful event. The tournament benefited not just the players, but everyone involved. We learned valuable lessons and will ensure future programmes are as successful as this one,” added Mnukwa.
A young netball player from Yeoville, Nomzamo Jali, shared her excitement. “These past days have been thrilling. I saw my favourite players and took pictures with them. It was wonderful, and I am so happy. Those players are amazing with their moves and ball handling. It was great.”
Jali was accompanied by her mother, Nomthandazo, who said, “Nomzamo loves netball. She brought me here, and I’m glad I came. I never realised how serious netball is. Look at all the sponsors”.
When asked if she would come back to watch future games, Jali senior did not hesitate to say, “Yes.”
In her closing remarks, the President of Netball South Africa, Cecilia Molokwane thanked everyone who contributed to the tournament, including the title sponsor, Telkom, and the host City, Johannesburg.
Molokwane emphasised that the players were the reason everyone had gathered at the beautiful Ellis Park Arena for the spectacular game of netball.
“The City of Johannesburg’s Sports and Recreation Directorate takes pride in having brought such vibrancy to Ellis Park Arena. It was a hectic three weeks, and we are proud of everyone involved, including the security cluster,” said Mnukwa.
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