Male netball promise epic battle championships 

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The Netball South Africa is set to host the biggest male national netball championships with a huge number of teams battling it out for the ultimate prize.

The tournament is set to take place at the Ellis Park Outdoor Courts in Johannesburg from Thursday, September 26-30.

The city boasts a strong netball presence, will play host to the championships for the third time since 2015 with four teams participating in this year’s tournament: two in the senior division and two in the under 23 division. 

Other districts with a significant number of teams include Ethekwini, Ekurhuleni, Capricorn, Cape Town and Tshwane, each entering three teams.

This year’s tournament is deemed record breaker and largest to date, featuring over sixty teams competing across Senior A, B and Under 23 divisions. 

With over 60 teams, drawn from 52 districts across the country – the level of participation underscores the growing popularity of this men’s game.

Netball South Africa’s (NSA) president Cecilia Molokwane believes the record participation of 67 teams across various divisions underscores the growing popularity of the sport.

She said; “This year championships are shaping up to be an unforgettable event with record participation, intense competition and the opportunity for national team selection.

Overwhelming response to men’s netball

“The tournament will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the sport of men’s netball. We’re excited that the 2024 edition will be the biggest to date competing across the senior A, B and an Under-23 division.”

Molokwane’s vision and the overwhelming response to the tournament indicate a promising future for men’s netball in South Africa.

As the defending champions, Ekurhuleni will face intense competition from across the country as they attempt to retain their title. 

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The reigning champions are determined to prove that their 2023 victory was no fluke. With Coach Judy Rathethe guiding them, they said they will hold onto their title in the face of fierce competition.

“We shocked everyone last year, but we’re not resting on our laurels. We’re working hard to maintain our high standards,” Rathethe said.

She added by saying defending a title brings its own pressure, and they are ready.