Netball South Africa is set to host the biggest Males National Netball Championships yet, with a record number of teams battling it out for the ultimate prize. As defending champions, Ekurhuleni will face intense competition from across the country as they attempt to retain their title. The tournament, taking place at the Ellis Park Outdoor Courts in Johannesburg from 26 – 30 September 2024, will showcase the very best in men’s netball.
A Record-Breaking Tournament
The 2024 tournament will be the largest to date, featuring over 60 teams competing across Senior A, B and Under 23 divisions. With over 60 teams, drawn from 52 districts across the country – the level of participation underscores the growing popularity of this men’s game.
The 2023 edition of the tournament, held at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium Netball Courts in Rustenburg (North West), featured 48 district teams (12 under-23 teams and 36 senior teams). Netball South Africa’s (NSA) president Cecilia Molokwane believes the record participation of 67 teams across various divisions underscores the growing popularity of the sport.
“The 2024 Males National Netball Championships are shaping up to be an unforgettable event. With record participation, intense competition and the opportunity for national team selection, the tournament will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the sport of men’s netball. We’re excited that the 2024 edition will be the biggest to date competing across the senior A, B and an Under-23 division.”
Molokwane’s vision and the overwhelming response to the tournament indicate a promising future for men’s netball in South Africa. Johannesburg will play host to the championships for the third time since 2015. The city boasts a strong netball presence, with four teams participating in this year’s tournament: two in the senior division and two in the under 23 division. Other districts with a significant number of teams include eThekwini, Ekurhuleni, Capricorn, Cape Town and Tshwane, each entering three teams.
Ekurhuleni A – Out to Defend Title
Ekurhuleni A, the reigning champions from Gauteng, are determined to prove that their 2023 victory was no fluke. With Coach Judy Rathethe guiding them, Ekurhuleni A are determined to hold onto their title in the face of fierce competition.
“We shocked everyone last year, but we’re not resting on our laurels. We’re working hard to maintain our high standards. Defending a title brings its own pressure, but we’re ready. The A division is extremely competitive. Two games a day against strong opposition – there’s no room for error. But the players are fully committed, putting everything on the line. I wish more people could witness the passion and intensity of this competition.”
The Rise of Males’ Netball
Men’s netball has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. The South African male national team’s first international competition outside of Africa, the FAST5 team’s exposure on the global stage and the introduction of the men’s division at the USSA Netball Championships – all highlight the sport’s increasing prominence.
The Males National Championships serve as a crucial platform for national team coaches and selectors to identify talent for the FAST5, Males National team, and Under-23 teams. With a number of players already shortlisted for South Africa’s FAST5 team, the tournament offers a chance for others to shine and earn their place on the national stage. The FAST5 Netball World Series is scheduled for 09 & 10 November this year at the Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch, New Zealand.
The 2024 Males National Netball Championships promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill, athleticism and determination. With Ekurhuleni leading the charge to defend their title, the tournament is set to be a fiercely contested battle. As the sport continues to grow, this year’s championships will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of male netball players and fans.
Molokwane concluded: “As Netball SA, we would like to invite all Netball enthusiasts as well as corporates to come and witness greatness unleashed, in this display of exceptional skill. This is an amazing sporting platform for potential partners to see for themselves the amount of Male Netball talent that this country has to offer.”
Additional Information:
- Dates:
- 25 September 2024: Team Arrival
- 26 – 30 September 2024: Tournament (07:00am – 17:30 pm daily)
- Venue: Ellis Park Outdoor Courts, Johannesburg
- Ticket Prices: R20 per person per day (available at https://shop.netball-sa.org.za/males-national-championships/)
