NWU coach Elsunet du Plessis believes it will require a team effort to claim the 2021 Varsity Netball title.
And she includes management in that ‘team’.
‘It will take determination, discipline, and a great team effort, not only from players but management too,’ says Du Plessis. ‘The players have been working really hard and they are as ready as they can be under these special circumstances.’
It is five years since the two-time champions last laid their hands on the trophy.
Du Plessis says with good player management NWU should be strong enough to hold their own in what will be a daunting few days of netball action from 21-30 August at Stellenbosch University’s Coetzenburg Indoor Centre.
Du Plessis, a former Protea, played in the inaugural Varsity Netball competition for NWU in 2013, where they lost to Kovsies in the final. She was also one of three nominees for the Player of the Tournament that year.
SQUAD (8 NEWCOMERS)
Didi Keebine, Jessica du Plessis (captain), Lucy Strydom, Caitlinn Rousseau, Adivhaho Tshivhiahuvhi, Londeka Buthelezi, Elmeré van der Berg, Ilke van der Linde, Michelle Geduld, Ayanda William, Charissa Swanepoel, Nicolene van Heerden, Chelize Swart, Martiné Jordaan.
COACHING STAFF
Coach: Elsunet du Plessis
Team manager: Tracey Magwebu
PLAYER TO WATCH
Lucy Strydom. The goal attack and daughter of former Springbok, Hannes, made her senior provincial debut the year after leaving school. She has played for the national U18 team (2018) and Baby Proteas (2020-2021). In 2018 she was named as the country’s best U18 player.
TEAM RECORDS
Previous performances: 2019 – 4th; 2018 – 5th; 2017 – 2nd; 2016 – 1st; 2015 – 1st; 2014 – 3rd; 2013 – 2nd
Biggest win: 79 goals (93-14 vs VUT, 2016) & (94-15 vs VUT, 2017)
Most goals scored: 94 (94-15 vs VUT, 2017) & (94-30 vs VUT, 2018)
Least goals conceded: 13 (77-13 vs TUT, 2013)
Most consecutive wins: 10 (2016-2017)
By Ruan Bruwer
