“The Telkom Netball League (TNL) ‘has improved the sport in South Africa drastically.”
This is the opinion of Kingdom Stars coach Precious Mthembu and captain Nozipho Ntshangase, the pair who led their team to the Division Two title in this year’s tournament at Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg, on Tuesday, 18 June, 2024.
“It is so fulfilling to see players work so hard to play in this competition. The Telkom Netball League doesn’t only focus on one team but it has now grown to accommodate two teams and more players are getting exposure.
“Thank you Telkom for believing in women’s sport!”
Kingdom Stars Coach, Precious Mthembu
Ntshangase echoed the sentiments of her coach and said the TNL has built itself into the premier netball tournament in Mzansi.
“I feel that the TNL has improved netball in the country because it’s a competition that everyone wants to play in now. What is also amazing about the TNL is that we get to play against our role models.”
Kingdom Stars Captain, Nozipho Ntshangase
Something that Mthembu was pleased to see was the level of competition. She feels that the national team players participating made the contest a strong one as the young players are pitting their strengths against the best, which will help them improve their game.
“Several players have been recognised on this level of competition. This year we saw the SPAR Proteas returning to play TNL. Young players get opportunities to compete and measure themselves against international players. This means we are closing the gap in between and getting depth when it comes to players in South Africa.”
Ntshangase also added that she has seen how the tournament has been a benefit to the younger players.
“The competition allowed many young players to be seen by the SPAR Proteas coaches, FAST5 and Under-19 coaches. There is currently a log of players playing for the Under-19’s, even in my team and this competition gives them a chance to be seen.”
The TNL has been lauded for its all-around positive impact on netball and the focus on developing younger players. As someone who coaches players who are beginning their senior netball careers, Mthembu says development is a key factor in making sure the game continues to succeed and also grow in different ways.
“Development is one of the fundamentals of producing great talent. If the focus is not on development and grass route it’s going to be a challenge to replace players who have retired. Netball South Africa is doing incredible work in development reaching different areas by doing workshops and coaching clinics. This doesn’t only mean it focuses only on players but on officials as well.”
Kingdom Stars Coach, Precious Mthembu
Both Mthembu and Ntshangase were very complimentary to sponsors Telkom after the successful tournament. Both ladies know what it takes to have the right backing when a sport needs to succeed. They believe that Telkom’s support is leading the way in netball.
“Telkom has played a huge role in making sure the league is a success. I can proudly say we are one of the privileged sport to be able to play a league that funds and supports players and also pays them for playing. There are a few sporting codes that are not yet where netball is.”
“Every little girl wants to be part of TNL.”
“Telkom has also been behind the U/19’s and that their tournament, the TNC this is where the foundation is being built. Telkom you have been amazing, we thank you and you are appreciated, said Mthembu.
“I just want to give a huge shoutout to Telkom for sponsoring netball! Without Telkom, there is no TNL, and no platform to showcase our beautiful talent,” added Ntshangase.”
Main Photo Caption: Kingdom Stars coach Precious Mthembu and captain Nozipho Ntshangase, who led their team to the Division Two title at this year’s tournament in Johannesburg, have spoken about the improvement that the Telkom Netball League has brought on the sport in South Africa. Photos: Supplied
