For first-year student Njabulo Hlophe, joining the defending Varsity Netball champions at the North-West University (NWU) is about more than earning court time. It is an opportunity to add another chapter to a journey built on hard work, setbacks and a growing love for the people she has met through the sport.

The Cape Town-born midcourt player joined the NWU Eagles this year for her first Varsity Netball campaign. She arrived with experience beyond school netball. Njabulo has represented provincial teams and is part of the North West Flames set-up, where she is listed as a centre and wing attack. She also represented the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District during the 2026 national selection season of Netball South Africa.

“My netball journey thus far has been transformative,” says Njabulo. “It has not only shaped me as a netball player, but it has also shaped me into the outgoing person I am today.”

Her journey has included long hours in the gym, provincial netball and disappointment. Those experiences taught her grit, determination and commitment.

“I have truly learned that rejection is redirection and that hard work really does pay off.”

Njabulo was attracted to the NWU by its student life and the role students play in university structures. On the court, she found a team culture centred around respect, fellowship and representing the university with pride.

Joining the 2025 Varsity Netball champions has also raised expectations.

“It does bring a bit of healthy pressure,” she says. “It is pressure that makes me want to strive for the extra 1% I can contribute to the team by doing my job as a wing attack for the NWU Eagles.”

Njabulo has already featured in the Eagles squad during their 2026 title defence, including their opening 74-31 victory over Madibaz and the 60-59 thriller against UP-Tuks.

For NWU coach Elsunet du Plessis, Njabulo’s versatility could become an important asset.

“Njabulo is a first-year student who can play wing attack, centre and wing defence. What stands out for me is her versatility and ability to contribute on both attack and defence,” says Elsunet.

“She is an athletic and hard-working player who brings good speed, intensity and energy through the midcourt.”

The Varsity Netball #ILoveIt theme also carries personal meaning for Njabulo. Her love for the game is rooted in the friendships she has made.

“It is the sisterhood I built with my netball friends that I have today. These friendships became like family.”

As her first Varsity Netball season unfolds, Njabulo wants supporters to see both sides of her character.

“I hope they will see that I am a team player as well as an outgoing person who loves the game.”

Photo: First-year student Njabulo Hlophe joined the NWU Eagles this year for her first Varsity Netball campaign.