Varsity Netball can be really tough and not just because of all the physical on-court action as after every game new challenges awaits the players usually it is studying for a test or an exam.
At times finding enough hours to be a competitive player as well as an “Ace student” can be tricky. So don’t be surprised to see Jeanette Vermeulen (TuksNetball) all focused on her studies in the midst of a restaurant while everyone around her is seemingly enjoying themselves.
The 20-year old second-year student of audiology firmly believes in making the most of every minute of every day.
“I hate just sitting around doing nothing. There is always something to do therefore finding a balance in life is important. Netball has taught me to make the most of every moment. So when I play, I always give a 100% effort the same goes for when I am studying. I am in the lucky position of being equally passionate about my studies and netball.”
Vermeulen is not exaggerating when she talks about her passions. During the conversation, she tells how moved she was while helping an elderly gentleman fit his hearing aids.
“When I zipped my bag to close it I suddenly saw the man’s facial expression changes. I asked if there is something wrong. He said no he was just amazed to hear a zipping sound. It was the first time in years that he was able to do so. It was gratifying to realise that through my job I can make a difference in people’s lives. I also realise how we tend to take things for granted not always appreciating what we have.”
At the beginning of the year, Vermeulen was part of the Protea training squad. During the Brutal Fruit-series, she played for the Baobabs. In the past, she used to play goal-attack, but from this year she has decided to play centre as well.
“I think being a versatile player makes me a more significant asset for any team. I also have to be realistic. Being only 1.70m tall means, I am one of the smaller players in the circle. Often I have to face off to players that are 1.80m and taller and who is usually stronger. In one game I ended up landing on my backside on no less than eight occasions. But what I might lack centimetres I make up for with speed and agility.
“Deciding to also play centre is an exciting challenge as I am forced to think more. I have played goal attack for so long that it feels like I can do it with my eyes closed, as a centre I got to work out new plans and lines to run.”
Still, that is not all. The Tuks players is also a qualified netball referee. She often handles the whistle during school games, but she is planning to get better qualified to enable her to referee during provincial games as well.
UP-Tuks plays UWC on Monday in the last Varsity pool game. The game starts at 17:30 in the Rembrandt Hall.
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