The SPAR Proteas are gearing up for a challenging start to 2025 as they head to Jamaica for the prestigious Margaret Beckford Sunshine Series.
The three-match series against the Sunshine Girls, ranked third globally, is scheduled for January 18, 22, and 25 at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston.
Proteas Captain Chawane Leads the Charge
Fresh from clinching the African Netball Cup in December, Proteas captain Khanyisa Chawane will once again lead the squad. Chawane, who was named Player of the Tournament in Namibia, aims to carry her stellar form into the series. Joining her is sharpshooter Elmerè van der Berg, who earned the Best Shooter accolade at the African Netball Cup.
South Africa faces a daunting task against Jamaica, having won only three of their 18 historical encounters. However, the Proteas will draw inspiration from their most memorable victory over the Sunshine Girls—a thrilling 55-52 win during the 2019 Netball World Cup in Liverpool, which secured their spot in the semifinals.
SPAR Baby Proteas Gain Crucial Experience
Adding to the excitement, South Africa’s under-21 team, the SPAR Baby Proteas, will also participate in a friendly series against Jamaica’s under-21 side during the tournament. This initiative aims to prepare the young squad for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar.
Netball South Africa president Cecilia Molokwane emphasized the significance of this trip for both teams. “This experience will benefit the Proteas and lay the foundation ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games while preparing the Baby Proteas for the World Cup,” Molokwane said.
SPAR Baby Proteas head coach Precious Mthembu, making her international debut as head coach, expressed optimism about the series. “Our goal is to prepare the team mentally, physically, and emotionally. It’s a young squad, but we are committed to making the most of this opportunity,” she said.
Fixture Highlights
The series will kick off on Saturday, January 18, with the SPAR Baby Proteas taking on Jamaica’s U-21 side at 3:00 p.m. local time, followed by the SPAR Proteas’ clash with the Sunshine Girls at 6:00 p.m.
SPAR Proteas Squad:
Defenders: Boitumelo Mahloko, Sanmarie Visser, Ane Retief, Nicola Smith, Jamie van Wyk
Mid-Court: Kamogelo Maseko, Tarle Mathe, Khanyisa Chawane, Refiloe Nketsa, Jeante Strydom
Shooters: Nichole Breedt, Rolene Streutker, Elmerè van der Berg, Ine-Mari Venter, Owethu Ngubane
SPAR Baby Proteas Squad:
Mbali Diphoko, Michelle van der Merwe, Giada Prinsloo, Lisa Ingwersen, Thato Legodi, Jade Atkins, Karla Victor, Kyla Dames, Noncubeko Mjaliswa, Phophi Nematangari, Kiara van Eeden, Zahrah Noah, Ametisse Bandu, Luca Keun, Zionne Grobler
With preparations in full swing, the SPAR Proteas and Baby Proteas are ready to showcase their talent on the international stage.
