South Africa is poised to make waves at the upcoming FAST5 Netball World Series, scheduled for 09-10 November in Christchurch, New Zealand. Both the men’s and women’s national teams have arrived in the Land of the Long White Cloud, eager to showcase their skills and secure top honours.
The women’s team makes a ninth appearance, while the men’s side is at the FAST5 Netball World Series for a second successive appearance. The FAST5 Netball World Series is a thrilling, fast-paced version of traditional netball. With shorter quarters, power plays and bonus points, the format is designed to captivate audiences and create an action-packed spectacle.
South Africa has a rich history in netball and both teams are expected to be formidable contenders. The women’s team, in particular, has been a dominant force in recent years, consistently performing at the highest level. The men’s team, while relatively new to the international stage, has shown significant promise and will be looking to make their mark on the world stage.
Aiming for the Top
Women’s captain, Shannen Bartlett, a key member of the silver-medal-winning 2022 women’s team (the SA FAST5 women’s best finish in the competition to date), is eager to push the team to new heights. “For my team this year, I hope we get to the finals. I feel like that is our goal and then at the end of play – pulling through with finals and winning the goal because I know we can. We have depth in our team, we have a great deal of experienced players, and I feel like we’ve learned a lot throughout the years.”
The men’s team, led by captain Vukile Zulu, is determined to continue their upward trajectory. “My expectation this year is to at least make it to the finals. Our goal remains, we want to play finals as males. We have the inclusion of senior players, so we want to play finals this year.”
Coach Neville Chapepa is optimistic about the team’s chances: “Well, I see Gold in my eyes, I expect them to do very well because we have managed to get the experience that we wanted to have. Remember last year, we had all the Under-23s and we’ve got a good mix this time around.”
Netball South Africa President Cecilia Molokwane is optimistic that the teams will make a significant impact. “We’re confident that our teams will make a lasting impact and inspire a new generation of netballers. I am proud of the progress we’ve made, particularly in men’s netball. We are not just competing for medals; we’re inspiring future generations to take up the sport we love. We wish them all the best in Christchurch.”
All matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
The SA Teams:
§ Females: Rolene Streukter (GS); Zandré Smit (GS); Kamogelo Maseko (GA); Lefébre Rademan (GA); Shannen Bartlett (C); Amber Coraizin (C); Sanmarie Visser (GD); Boitumelo Mahloko (GD); Ané Retief (GK); Syntiche Kabuya (GK)
§ Team Management: Martha Mosoahle-Samm (Head Coach); Erin Burger (Assistant Coach); Tholakele Nsele (Manager) and Narita du Toit (Physio).
§ Males: William Lethoko (GS); Shane Labuschagne (GS/GA); Eugene Sinxesi (GA/GS); Fred Damons (GA/C); Sibongakonke Vava (C/GA); Itumeleng Mohanoe (C); Njabulo Nekhavhambe (GD); Sicelo Gamede (GD/GK); Edward Manyathela (GK/GD); Vukile Zulu (GK)
§ Team Management: Neville Chapepa (Head Coach); Themba Ntuli (Assistant Coach); Olian Thobejane (Team Manager); Matome Seroto (Physio).
INFO SUPPLIED.
