roteas netball team entered its sixth day of a closed-door training camp at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre, the intensity and focus reached new heights. The week-long camp brought together 15 of South Africa’s best players to prepare for the upcoming season.
Jenny van Dyk, the SA Netball Coach, emphasized the importance of this camp. “We have regular camps, but this one is special because it’s the first time the entire group of 15 is together. It’s a closed camp because we need to align all our systems and structures. We want everyone to fully understand the direction we’re heading in. It’s a very important camp for us, and we’ve had many conversations to ensure we’re all on the same page.”
The afternoon session began with a rigorous warm-up as the players moved with precision and purpose. As the session progressed, the team transitioned into game simulations.
The court buzzed with energy, with the sounds of whistles and beeps signalling the start and stop of intense drills. Each play was approached with the seriousness of a live match, as the coaches watched closely, taking notes on every detail. They focused on player combinations, assessing how well the team was gelling and identifying areas where adjustments might be needed.
Van Dyk also expressed her high expectations for the players. “I expect all of them to be star players. We’ve selected the 15 best in the country now. Our newly appointed captain, Khanyisa Chawane, and her vice-captain, Karla Pretorius, have been brilliant. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, which is crucial for aligning the team without having to reinvent the wheel. Their involvement as mentors is key to ensuring that all players understand the standards, requirements, and expectations moving forward,” she said.
The newer players, though less experienced at this level, showed remarkable composure. Their confidence was evident as they seamlessly integrated into the team’s strategies. The coaching staff paid close attention to the dynamics between these fresh faces and the veterans, ensuring that the team’s chemistry was solid.
A highlight of the day was the focus on player combinations. The shooters demonstrated exceptional accuracy, responding well to the intense scrutiny of the coaching staff. Every shot was a test of precision and mental toughness, qualities that will be crucial in the season ahead. Watching the Proteas in action was a lesson in smart, fast-paced netball, where quick decisions and flawless execution were key.
Throughout the session, the atmosphere on the court was a mix of intensity and camaraderie. Yet, amidst the seriousness, there was room for laughter and encouragement, with players coaching each other and refining their techniques through peer support.
After the two-hour training session, new captain Chawane was asked about her leadership on and off the court. She summed it up by saying: “It’s about making everyone comfortable and leading by example. When I give my 100%, others learn from me. When a player makes a mistake, I communicate with her, give her a boost to keep going. It’s about staying connected and keeping everyone engaged.”
The Proteas are primed to bring the same grit, determination, and excellence into the upcoming season that has made South African netball a force to be reckoned with.
