SPAR Proteas Receive Warm Welcome After a Successful International Tour
Johannesburg – The SPAR Proteas received a warm reception from excited fans and the media at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday.
The team has returned from a month-long tour of Jamaica and England, where they took part in the Nations Cup.
Despite a commendable performance, the Proteas narrowly lost to the host nation England, with a final score of 61-55 in a thrilling Nations Cup final held in London on Sunday.
Prior to the final, they had an unbeaten run through three matches, defeating their African rivals Malawi and Uganda, and securing an impressive victory against the fourth-ranked English team, leading to an exhilarating final.
‘We’re Clear On What We Want to Achieve,’ Says SPAR Proteas Coach Jenny Van Dyk
Following their time in Jamaica and England, SPAR Proteas coach Jenny Van Dyk is optimistic about leveraging the performances and lessons learned.
“We learned an immense amount during our time together; we utilized every moment we had. We held numerous video sessions,” Van Dyk stated.
“The team has been remarkable; we cherished our time together. It’s evident what we can accomplish as a unit when we invest time in each other.
“We have a dynamic group of players filled with energy and strong leadership abilities.
“We’ve outlined our goals as a team, and all players are aligned with the vision, culture, and their respective roles within our unit.
“We are very focused on what we aim to achieve in the months and years ahead.”
‘I wouldn’t trade the experience,’ said Maseko
Proteas’ Goal Attack Kamogelo Maseko, who excelled throughout the tour, expressed that this is an experience she would never exchange for anything.
“This camp was distinct; the energy was phenomenal, everyone took responsibility, and we engaged in frank discussions internally as a group outside of management,” Maseko shared.
“We were aware of the challenge ahead. We knew that to be the best in the world, we had to compete against the best.
“As a squad, we developed significantly at a rapid pace. The hours of analysis and hard work were invaluable, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. I learned a great deal in Jamaica and England.”
‘I Even Cried,’ Reveals Molokwane
Netball SA president Cecilia Molokwane expressed that she was emotional after witnessing the team’s resilience during a difficult moment in the Nations Cup final.
The SPAR Proteas faced a significant challenge, playing for six minutes with one player sidelined after centre Refiloe Nketsa was ejected from the court for dangerous play.
“I want to express my gratitude to the team and commend the leadership of Khanyisa [Chawane – team captain]. I witnessed her leadership when Fifi [Nketsa] was removed from the court, and I realized we have a true leader and a suitable replacement for Bongiwe Msomi,” Molokwane noted.
“I was immensely proud of her, and I even shed a tear. I cried because I felt we have a leader.”
She extended her thanks to the sponsors for their steadfast support.