Two netball players from Stellenbosch have been named in the SPAR Baby Proteas squad set to take to the court in various international matches and tournaments, including the highly anticipated 2024 SPAR Challenge.
Lisa Ingwersen and Lara Ehlers, both representing the Cape Winelands, were selected to the u-21 South African netball squad following intense trials held at Laerskool Constantiapark in Pretoria at the weekend. Zarah Noah, another Cape Winelands representative and resident of Bellville, is the only other Capetonian to have made the cut.
The trials comprised two days of exhausting matches and remarkable displays of skill, with head coach Precious Mthembu, assistant coach Phumza Maweni and other selectors handpicking the final 15 players who will fly the South African flag.
Mthembu revealed that the players showed strong skills and determination during the trials, adding that they are pleased with the final squad.
“It’s heartening to see the remarkable depth of talent among our u-19 and u-21 players. Their dedication and passion for the sport are truly encouraging, and I’m excited to see them take the court in our upcoming tournaments.”
Molokwane is excited about the future of South African netball and is confident this squad can one day replace the players in the SPAR Proteas team. Their first assignment will be the 2024 SPAR Challenge at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg in October.
“I have immense confidence in the talent and potential of our current crop of young players,” Molokwane related. “They are an absolute delight to watch, and I firmly believe they have what it takes to become future stars of the SPAR Proteas team.
“I’m thrilled to see them gear up to represent our country at the SPAR Challenge, SPAR Championships and the Netball World Youth Cup 2025 in Gibraltar – the future of netball in our nation is bright indeed.”
The SPAR Baby Proteas squad will now commence preparations for their upcoming international matches and tournaments.
