Netball SA backs Durban to host Commonwealth Games

Netball South Africa (NSA) has thrown its weight fully behind Durban’s bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2022.

NSA President Mimi Mthethwa said netball was an important component of the Commonwealth Games, and NSA would be honoured to have such an important tournament at home.

“Netball is mainly played by Commonwealth countries, and the cream of world netball is represented at the Commonwealth Games every four years,” she said.

“There are two major events on the international netball calendar – the World Cup and the Commonwealth Games. South Africa is one of the top six countries in world netball, and I know the SPAR Proteas would welcome playing in front of their home crowds in a major event like the Games.”

She said netball was the biggest women’s sport in South Africa, and a tournament of the magnitude of the Commonwealth Games would further enhance its popularity in the country.

“We have seen what happened in the United Kingdom after the Olympic Games in London in 2012, and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014. Local support for the sporting codes involved in the Games increased dramatically, as British sportsmen and women captured the imagination of the British public.

“The same would happen here, and support for netball would grow exponentially as people see what an exciting sport it is when played at international level.”

“With home support, South Africa would feel confident of challenging for a medal in netball.”

As the only city in the running to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Durban is almost certain to be named the host for the biggest multi-sports event ever hosted in South Africa.

Although African countries make up the majority of Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Games have never been staged in Africa.