Netball South Africa (NSA), in partnership with proud sponsors Telkom, has launched the Telkom Netball League (TNL) which will be held on 27 April at the Sun City Superbowl near Rustenburg.
According to NSA, the TNL remains Africa’s premier franchise netball tournament and continues to be an exciting platform for the showcasing of the best Netball talent.
Supported by a strong partnership between Netball South Africa and proud sponsors Telkom, this year’s edition promises to be bigger and better, along with two exciting additional teams, the SPAR Baby Proteas (South Africa’s U-21) as well as invitational side, Zimbabwe.
“The inclusion of the SPAR Baby Proteas reflects both Netball South Africa and Telkom’s joint and unwavering commitment to developing the sport and providing young talent with a platform to showcase its ability.
This year’s edition will also be of great significance for the SPAR Baby Proteas, as the team gears up for the Netball World Youth Cup campaign in Gibraltar later this year,” read a statement from NSA.
The TNL will be held over three action packed Power Weeks, with the backing of the Bojanala Municipality.
“The first edition officially gets underway between 27 April-03 May 2025 at the Sun City Superbowl, where fans can expect high-octane netball action.
The Second Power Week resumes between 13-17 June 2025, with the last edition scheduled for 14-20 July to determine who will be crowned champions,” added the statement.
Four-time champions, Free State Crinums will be looking at defending their Division A title, while KwaZulu-Natal Kingdom Stars are set to prove themselves once again after missing out on the promotion to Division A following their loss to Limpopo Baobabs.
NSA president, Cecilia Molokwane, has expressed excitement about the growth of the league.
“This season, the Telkom Netball League provides an even bigger platform for both seasoned stars and emerging talent to showcase their skills.
As Netball SA, we are proud to be associated with a league that remains committed to developing the next generation of netball champions, ensuring that every player can shine on the national stage.
This season, we are thrilled to introduce a ground-breaking addition to the TNL league, the SPAR Baby Proteas will compete as the 17th team in preparation for the upcoming Netball Youth World Cup,” said Molokwane who was speaking during the TNL launch in Johannesburg.
Molokwane applauded the inclusion of the SPAR Baby Proteas, adding that it’s a perfect platform for the team as it prepares for the Netball Youth World Cup 2025 in Gibraltar.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, called on stakeholders to continue supporting Netball in the country.
“It’s a sport that has a rich history, must be celebrated and nurtured.
When they presented their programs to us, it touched our hearts because in the past 20 years, they were given a stipend, but the programmes they’ve been running, the achievements are amazing.
They need more support, we must give them more financial support, so that if sponsors don’t come their way, they should know that at least they have the backing from government,” remarked Mabe.
Netball South Africa will soon confirm fixtures, ticketing details as well as broadcast schedules in due course.
