Competition heats up at Netball champs

The tournament is divided into A, B and C-sections, but the main focus will be on the A section, where the country’s elite players will be vying for the title of the best team in the country.

Mangaung Metro (formerly Free State) are the defending champions, but can expect stiff opposition from Gauteng North, Nelson Mandela Bay and Dr Kenneth Kaunda (formerly North West South).

Mangaung Metro would be without their three Proteas, national captain, goal attack Maryka Holtzhausen, and defenders Adele Niemand and Karla Mostert, who have just returned from the Commonwealth Games, but coach Burta de Kock said this was an ideal opportunity for other players to put their hands up.

“We will take it game by game, but we are confident that we will be able to defend our title,” said De Kock.

“Our preparations have gone well, and the players are fit and looking forward to the challenge.”

Captain Lauren-Lee Christians said although there were several young players in the squad, there was also plenty of experience.

“I have played alongside Maryka for a long time, and I have learned a lot from her,” said Christians.

“I am excited about the opportunity to lead the team, and we are pretty confident about the coming week. The younger players have a chance to show everyone what they can do.”

– Sapa