Netball South Africa has named the first squad under the leadership of newly appointed Spar Proteas coaches, Jenny van Dyk and her assistant, Zanele Mdodana.
According to Netball South Africa, the announcement marks a significant milestone as the team gears up for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia.
Following the retirement of senior and experienced players after last year’s World Cup, the new team at the helm conducted a rigorous selection process, that saw 30 players convene at a training camp in January at Stellenbosch. Netball South Africa said the 15 new squad members reflects a harmonious blend of seasoned expertise and emerging talent, comprising seven domestic and eight overseas-based players.
The new team includes stalwarts who were part of the last year’s World Cup campaign, Karla Pretorius, Ine-Mari Venter, Khanyisa Chawane, and Elmere van der Berg, of whom the coaching staff is hoping to build a new team on. “We understand that we are not only shaping a team but nurturing dreams.
As we embark on a new season, the selected players are primed and motivated to excel,” said Van Dyk. The coaching duo’s inaugural match will see the Spar Proteas face off against Malawi in August, a fixture renowned for its intensity and competitiveness.
Ahead of the season, the team will convene next month for their inaugural alignment camp, with locally based players and training partners set to participate.
Meanwhile, overseas-based players are slated to join the squad at the end of July in preparation for the clash against Malawi.
Netball South Africa President Cecilia Molokwane wished the selected players all the best, adding that this “year is a crucial one in building up towards the 2027 Netball World Cup to be held in Australia.”
Spar Protea Squad:
- Ine-Mari Venter
- Rolene Streutker
- Elmere van der Berg
- Kamogelo Maseko
- Owethu Ngubane
- Nichole Taljaard
- Khanyisa Chawane
- Refiloe Nketsa
- Tarle Mathe
- Jeante Strydom
- Jamie van Wyk
- Boitumelo Mahloko
- Karla Pretorius
- Nicola Smith
- Ane Retief
