The local district netball governing body, uMgungundlovu Netball Association, believes positive reflections and a larger number of players taking part in the Telkom Netball League means that the game is alive and development structures are working.
uMgungundlovu Netball Association and local Elite Netball Association chairperson Zimephi Phakathi said she was very proud of the players and the development programs.
“We are very happy and proud what is currently happening in the TNL games. A couple of our players are doing well. It means the local netball is doing well and producing players,” said Phakathi.
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Phakathi believes that if they maintain this energy and enthusiasm, more local players will be able to represent uMgungundlovu at the provincial and national level in the future.
Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal Kingdom Queens fought bravely until the final whistle, but narrowly missed out on Telkom Netball League Division 2 gold crown, falling 47-46 to the Western Cape Tornadoes in a nail-biting final at Rembrandt Hall in Pretoria on Sunday evening.
In a match that had supporters on the edge of their seats, the Queens displayed heart, determination, and resilience against a quality Tornadoes outfit.
Despite their valiant effort, it was the Western Cape side that held their nerve in the closing stages to claim the championship title.
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A special mention goes to Lonwabo Khumalo, who delivered a standout performance and was deservedly named player of the match, producing crucial interceptions and turnovers that kept the Kingdom Queens in contention throughout the encounter.
While the gold medal slipped away by the narrowest of margins, the Kingdom Queens can hold their heads high after an outstanding campaign. They finish as Division 2 runners-up — earning a silver medal and R150 000 in prize money for their remarkable efforts.
Congratulations to the Western Cape Tornadoes on a well-deserved championship victory, and a huge salute to the Kingdom Queens for representing KZN with pride, passion, and excellence throughout the tournament.
