COLUMN
It reinforced that when we commit to our standards, we can compete with anyone. The win builds confidence but also hunger. It shows us what’ s possible and gives us belief heading into the next phase of preparation ahead of the Commonwealth Games later in the year.
We definitely took a moment to celebrate. It’ s important to acknowledge the achievement. It was about enjoying time with teammates, sharing laughs, and reflecting on the journey. But as athletes, you quickly shift focus because the next challenge comes fast.
POWERED BY THE ROAR OF A HOME CROWD
By SPAR Proteas netball captain Khanyisa Chawane
It’ s been an amazing month. Playing in front of a crowd like the one at the Ellis Park Arena for our series against England was incredible; the energy was electric. You could feel the passion from the stands, and it lifted us in key moments. Playing in front of a home crowd like that is special and definitely one of the most memorable atmospheres I’ ve experienced in South Africa.
After winning the first Test and then losing the second, there was all to play for in the third. I reminded the team what this win would mean to us and to our supporters but most of all, I asked them how badly they wanted this. Because moments like this are earned, through every tough session and every sacrifice.
I told them to trust our identity, stay present, and play with courage. Most importantly, I asked them to play for each other and embrace the occasion rather than fear it.
There was a shift in momentum after the halftime break in that final match. We didn’ t always come out strong in the second half in our other matches, but in that final game, we did, and that’ s where you could feel the belief growing, not just in our play but in our body language. We were connected, making good decisions under pressure, and I could sense that the group trusted the plan and each other. That’ s when I felt we were in control.
And then wrapping up the series with a 65-50 win was just incredible. That must be one of our biggest winning margins over England ever.
For me, that challenge was heading straight over to the UK to represent Cardiff Dragons in the Netball Super League.
It’ s a unique transition; you go from one environment and role straight into another. But it’ s also exciting because you’ re stepping into a new challenge, learning new systems, and growing as a player and person. But I’ m excited. I love my team and enjoy playing for Dragons.
When it comes to travelling, I don’ t like spending time at the airport. I just want to get there and go already. So I’ m definitely a last-minute-dashthrough-departures person.
One thing that always goes into my suitcase before a long overseas stint is something that keeps me grounded, usually a small reminder of home, whether it’ s a personal item or something that helps me stay mentally connected to my support system. It’ s that support system I miss most when I’ m away from home – family, friends, and the feeling of being surrounded by familiar energy. There’ s nothing like home support, and that’ s what keeps you motivated while you’ re away.
Until next month... KC
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