A netball tournament for high school U19 teams was held at the Joza Indoor Sports Center from 13 to 15 October. The event was organised by Rhodes University Sport Administration, through the National Lotteries sponsorship.
A netball tournament for high school U19 teams was held at the Joza Indoor Sports Center from 13 to 15 October. The event was organised by Rhodes University Sport Administration, through the National Lotteries sponsorship.
Teams which participated included Nathaniel Nyaluza A and B, TEM Mrwetyana, Nombulelo A and B and Khutliso Daniels. For their participation each school received a set of new lotto branded kit, water bottles and match balls.
Mandla Gagayi, assistant manager at Rhodes Sports Admin said: “The spirits were high and all teams were out to show what they can do.” From their first match Nombulelo A were favourites to win the tournament as their squad consisted of some of the well known netballers in Grahamstown. However, one school that always had the crowds on their feet was Nathaniel Nyaluza, as their passion and commitment made the spectators admire their game regardless of the scoreline.
Nombulelo B outclassed TEM Mrwetyana who were tipped to be the second best after Nombulelo A. The match of the day came when Nombulelo A squared up against their B counterparts – this match was definitely the match of the tournament and Nombelelo B made notice of themselves when they held their seniors to a 3–3 draw going into half time.
Nombulelo A were visibly shaken and shocked by challenges from their juniors. However, in the second half they shook their nerves off and stamped their authority, but that did not convince the crowds as they continued routing for Nombulelo B until the final whistle.
Nombulelo A went on to win 8-5. After this scintillating final the following awards were handed out: Team of the tournament – Nombulelo B Best supported school – Nathaniel Nyaluza Coach of the tournament – Noluthando Mhlekwa (Nombulelo) Umpire of the tournament – Zipho Nkomonde Player of the tournament – Ntomboxolo Nanto – Nombulelo A centre Gagayi said following the success of this tournament, Rhodes Sport will host another tournament for local teams on 30 October at Nombulelo from 8.30am to 1pm.
The tournament is for U15 and U12 teams and these teams will also receive equipment with the aim to grow netball further.
