Rotating players, but not disturbing the rhythm of the team, will be key for the Madibaz in the 2021 Varsity Netball tournament.
Teams will play nine games in 10 days at Stellenbosch University’s Coetzenburg Indoor Centre. Madibaz coach Lana Krige believes all the teams will be undercooked.
‘In the first tournament of the year, you are still searching for the best combinations,’ she says. ‘It is going to be important to keep the players fresh while maintaining the team’s momentum.
‘We have spent a lot more time on general fitness and conditioning this year. We have also tried a new line of conditioning.
‘The mental aspect will also be tough,’ Krige adds, referring to the teams being in a bio-bubble for the duration of the tournament. ‘We are lucky to have Melinda Goosen as our manager and Jeanie Steyn as an assistant coach. They are among the best in the game at providing an environment to help the players cope.’
Krige, a former Proteas player and assistant coach, believes player depth will determine the winner of the tournament.
SQUAD (8 NEWCOMERS)
Jody Vorster, Siphosethu Kilani, Mothira Mohammed (captain), Noluthando Maliehe, Dillian Pienaar, Marna Visagie, Sivenathi Socenywa, Britney van der Merwe, Juanita van Tonder, Zihle Makamba, Siyamthanda Dingiswayo, Bonique Solaan, Jané Nel, Kayleigh Hill.
COACHING STAFF
Coach: Lana Krige
Team manager: Melinda Goosen
PLAYER TO WATCH
Jody Vorster. The goal shooter has been playing for the Madibaz since 2018. In both the 2018 and 2019 Varsity Netball competitions she ended as one of the top shooters (most goals and highest goal percentage).
TEAM RECORDS
Previous performances: 2019 – 5th; 2018 – 3rd; 2017 – 5th; 2016 – 5th; 2015 – 5th; 2014 – 5th; 2013 – 3rd
Biggest win: 48 goals (75-27 vs VUT, 2016)
Most goals scored: 75 (75-27 vs VUT, 2016)
Least goals conceded: 16 (45-16 vs UCT, 2014)
Most consecutive wins: 3 (2013 & 2018)
By Ruan Bruwer
