Zanele Khoza selected for national netball champs, seeks community support
Talented local netball player Zanele Khoza (24) earns recognition from the Ekurhuleni Senior Ladies Squad and prepares to compete at the SPAR National Championships.
TSAKANI – Zanele Khoza (24) has been selected to represent the Ekurhuleni Netball Association Senior Ladies Squad at the SPAR National Netball Championships, taking place from November 30 to December 7.
Khoza earned her spot after trials at Atlasville Netball Court in Pretoria and received confirmation of her selection on April 5.
“Three days after participating, I received my results, and they were beyond pleasing. I was very happy and filled with excitement,” she said.
“Netball is my favourite sport. I enjoy it very much – it keeps me fit and healthy and has helped me meet new people.”
She said the opportunity means a lot to her and is a stepping stone for personal growth and development in netball.
“It enables me to learn new tactics, observe other players, and visit new places,” she said.
Khoza began playing netball in 2010 while at Khombindlela Primary School. Introduced to the sport by her teacher, it quickly became a hobby she loved.
“I played throughout primary school and wanted to continue even after finishing school,” she said.
In 2018, she met coach Thandi Nkosi and asked to join her netball team.
“She welcomed me with open arms and made me one of her players. I played for just a year, as I was in matric at the time.”
She credits netball with shaping her life and giving her purpose.
“It keeps me focused and always striving to improve,” she said.
Khoza looks up to professional netballer Tarle Mathe for inspiration.
“The way she plays inspires confidence, determination, and goal-setting in me,” she said.
Now, Khoza is appealing to the community of Kwa-Thema and surrounding areas for help raising R7 500 to cover her expenses for the upcoming championships.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete and gain valuable experience. I humbly appeal to the community to assist in raising the funds. This journey is not just for me – it’s for my peers, my family, and most importantly, my community,” she said.
She thanked her family for their ongoing support and extended her gratitude to her coach.
“He exposes us to so many opportunities, and for that, I’m truly grateful.”
