Ekurhuleni will be in the spotlight at the 2024 Men’s Senior Netball National Championships, set to take place at the Ellis Park Outdoor Courts from September 26 to 30. As the defending champions, the team from Gauteng is eager to maintain their title amidst tough competition from across the country.
This year’s tournament will feature 56 senior teams and 28 Under-23 sides competing in an intense four-day event, showcasing the best of men’s netball.
Ekurhuleni A’s coach, Judy Rathebe, is enthusiastic about the upcoming challenge. She acknowledges that perspectives on her team have shifted since their championship win last April. “We came in as underdogs last year but finished as champions. Teams that view us as underdogs again this year are mistaken,” Rathebe states.
Defending our title comes with pressure, but our experience as champions will guide us. We’re mentally prepared to take on the challenge again.
Rathebe emphasizes the intensity of the competition, noting that matches require players to compete fiercely, with two games scheduled each day. “There’s no room for error in the A division; every team is here to win,” she explains.
Understanding the competitiveness of their rivals, Rathebe highlights teams like West Rand, who previously challenged them, as well as Cape Town and Zululand, who also bring strong players to the court.
The squad has welcomed fresh talent from the Under-23 team, including Njabulo Nekhavhambe, Nico Pieters, Sifiso Mbaza, and Siphiwe Madibeng, all of whom add energy and excitement. “These players have already shown exceptional performance, and we’re eager to see what they can contribute to the senior team,” Rathebe shares.
The championships serve as a crucial platform for national selectors to identify talent for upcoming teams, including the Fast5 Netball World Series scheduled for November 9-10 in Christchurch.
Rathebe hopes her players will shine and catch the attention of selectors for national representation. “Last year, many of our players earned national team call-ups, and I anticipate even more this year,” she remarks.
Men’s netball has been gaining momentum, with significant milestones such as the Pumas competing internationally and the launch of a male division by USSA. As Ekurhuleni prepares for the challenge, they aim to showcase their skills and defend their title successfully.
