With South Africa set to host the Netball World Cup in Cape Town this year (28 July to 6 August), Netball South Africa has embarked on a journey to showcase the trophy to the country’s nine provinces. Recently, the trophy made its way to Tshwane, where it was welcomed by various dignitaries including Professor Tawana Kupe, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria (UP). 

Speaking at Netball South Africa in Hatfield, Prof Kupe said he was excited about the upcoming games.

“Go for it,” he said to the national team. “You can do it – the sky’s the limit!”

President of Netball South Africa Cecilia Molokwane also offered a few words.

“I’d like to encourage all South Africans, especially young girls, to watch and support our team during the tournament,” she said. “I am proud that the World Cup will touch South African soil during July, which is also known as Nelson Mandela Month in our country, when we commemorate the life of the late giant. Some games will also be played during Women’s Month in August – the timing is perfect. We hope to host the best tournament ever, and for the trophy to remain at home.”

A huge number of supporters came out to view the trophy, and the official Netball South Africa mascot, Letsatsi, as well as TV personalities and soccer stars were there to entertain the crowd.

Soccer champ Siphiwe Tshabalala pointed out that the tournament is significant for all South Africans, not just women.

“I would like to commend the leadership of Netball South Africa for working tirelessly to ensure that our country hosts these games,” he said. “To the players, this is an opportunity to write your names in the history books, and to make sure it is a good story to tell, because this trophy is not going anywhere. This is your time and your chapter, and we are behind you all the way.” 

Actor Seputla Sebogodi also expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament.

“This trophy has never been in Africa in 60 years,” he said. “This is history. My wish is that it stays in the country for the next four years. Our ladies must use the home ground advantage to win this World Cup.”

Former netball player Tina Mudau used the opportunity to wish the team well and to remind them that the entire country will be watching and cheering them on. She added the event is more than a netball tournament.

“I am happy to see that, finally, our country has been selected to host this exciting tournament. Our ladies have been training hard and I can assure South Africans that they are ready for this!”