With the Varsity Netball season on the horizon, the North-West University (NWU) netball team is setting its sights on reaching the finals, a goal that reflects their determination to build on their previous performance.

Last year, the NWU team made it to the semifinals, only to be eliminated by the University of Johannesburg. This year, the team aims to go further.

"We are taking it one game at a time and treating every match as if it's the only one that matters," says coach Elsunet du Plessis, outlining the team's strategy for the upcoming season.

Elsunet explains that preparation for the season is well underway, with the team working diligently to ensure they are ready for the challenges ahead. "There’s a strong sense of purpose in the team, and everyone is putting in the effort to make sure we are prepared.".

Two players expected to play key roles this season are Martiné Jordaan and Sanmarie Visser. Martiné, who also serves as the team captain, is seen as a crucial leader on the court.

The Varsity Netball tournament is recognised as an important stage for emerging talent, providing players with the opportunity to develop their skills and gain exposure to a higher level of competition. "Varsity Netball is crucial for the development of our players. It gives them the experience and exposure they need to prepare for national-level competition," says Elsunet.

As the NWU team prepares for the season, there is a clear understanding of the challenges ahead and the importance of each game. The team’s previous semifinal appearance serves as both a motivator and a reminder of the work needed to reach their goals. All eyes will be on the NWU to see if they can advance beyond last year's performance and make a deeper run in the 2024 Varsity Netball competition.

The NWU’s first match is against the Nelson Mandela University Madibaz on Sunday, 1 September at 19:00 at the Wits Sports Hall in Johannesburg.   

PROVISIONAL SQUAD

Sunel Smit, Nadine Hefer, Jade Egwatu, Andrya Joubert, Tlotlang Mokomela, Kega Mashilo, Nicola Oosthuizen, Jomari Lübbe, Johanné Meyer, Amori Matthee, Casey Davids, Jaylin van Zyl, Risima Ngobeni, Sanmarie Visser, Martiné Jordaan, Izaan Snyman. 

The NWU netball team is geared to take on the Varsity Netball tournament.