The Bhongweni Youth Centre was recently abuzz with excitement as young netball players gathered for the Netball South Africa Presidential Community Outreach Programme. Hosted in partnership with the Greater Kokstad Municipality (GKM), the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, as well as the Harry Gwala Netball Federation, the initiative sought to nurture young talent, enhance sports development within Harry Gwala, and amplify the excitement ahead of the Under-21 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar later this year. 

Among the key figures present was Mbali Diphoko, a rising star in South African netball who grew up playing on the very courts she returned to inspire the next generation on. The U21 South Africa netball player, who once attended 7 Fountains Primary School and Shayamoya Area Secondary School in Kokstad, shared her journey with the aspiring athletes, serving as a beacon of hope for many.

Mbali’s story is one of perseverance and passion. Her exceptional talent on the court earned her a bursary to study at the University of the Free State (Kovsies), where she is currently in her first year. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “I never imagined that the same courts I played on as a child would be the place where I would return to inspire others. Netball has changed my life, and I hope to see many of you follow in my footsteps.”

During the event, Mbali handed over netball equipment to school captains, symbolizing her commitment to giving back to the community that nurtured her talent. 

GKM Speaker, Cllr Bheki Nozaza emphasized the importance of investing in young athletes, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Mbali and what she has achieved. Her story is proof that with the right support, our young people can reach greater heights. As a Municipality, we are committed to ensuring that sports facilities and training opportunities continue to grow.” 

President of Netball South Africa. Cecilia Molokwane echoed similar sentiments, underlining the association’s dedication to developing young players. “This is more than just netball. It’s about building a future for these young girls. Mbali is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication,” she said 

The event also marked a significant milestone for Netball South Africa as they celebrate 30 years of democracy. The donation of netball equipment to local schools reinforced their commitment to fostering talent at a grassroots level. With young players like Mbali emerging from communities like Kokstad, the future of South African netball looks brighter than ever.

As the programme concluded, one thing was clear—Mbali Diphoko’s journey is just the beginning, and she carries with her the hopes of many young players who one day dream of wearing the green and gold colours of the South African national netball team.

By Kamvalethu Xhelithole