The early stages of the 2022 Varsity Netball tournament have once again shown that the future of netball in South Africa is healthy. And with the 2023 World Cup in Cape Town looming, there has never been a better time.
With a total of 98 (first and second years) out of the more than 150 players participating in the tournament this year, it is safe to say that the future of South African netball is secure in the hands of our youth.
It is Jomari Lübbe’s first time on the Varsity Netball circuit, representing the NWU Eagles. She describes her experience so far as an “adrenaline rush”. “I am overjoyed at the opportunity and immensely grateful for every chance I get to step onto the court,” Lübbe says.
At the same time though, Lübbe admits that with the opportunity comes particular challenges. Stating the obvious, she says it is challenging coming up against the more seasoned netballers, but “I love a challenge”.
Head coach of the NWU Eagles, Elsunet du Plessis, says she is excited to see the younger players inject new energy into their distinguished teams and the overall competition.
“It’s exhilarating to watch the new talents on the court. The eagerness they play with round after round is impressive.”
Du Plessis also refers to seasoned players and says she regards it as a good learning experience. “It creates the opportunity for the next generation to prove themselves and grow into their positions on the court.”
It has been proven that smiling helps to relieve stress. Lübbe is one of those players who always plays with a smile, no matter how tough her opponents are.
“My favourite on-court moment is when you get a crucial intercept in a tight game and turn the ball for your team. It is the celebrating and relationships on the court that makes everything worthwhile.”
The age limit of the Varsity Netball tournament is 25, allowing players to mature. Lübbe says it certainly helps her to develop.
“My future in netball goes hand-in-hand with being better each day. I aim to be able to give 100%, both on and off the court”.
Lübbe acknowledges that hard work is the key to success.
“Like every other netballer, I dream of pulling the national colours over my head, but if that means I must take baby steps, I’ll do it with a smile.”
by Jana Schlechter
