Kwa-Thema – Nondumiso Mashaya (16) is an exceptional goal attacker who started playing netball at the age of eight.

She explained that she would see older girls playing and envy them. Mashaya enjoys scoring goals for her team, saying they sometimes decide the match. She added that when she started playing netball, she was clueless.

“I did not know a lot of things that I know now about netball, but that did not stop me from trying and it felt so good to be on the court.

“I got inspired by looking at other girls play, so I told myself that I want to play like them and my mom started to encourage me,” she said.

“Since I started, the only challenges I have faced are managing time between school and training, and not having a training kit such as netball-appropriate shoes or a bag.”

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Mashaya looks up to her coach, Lebohang Bangani, whom she describes as patient and passionate. She said Bangani helps her get through training and provides encouragement and support.

Her long-term goal is to become one of the best netball players, get recognition from big teams, and possibly play for the national team.

“My mom and coach always motivate me to work hard to achieve all the things that I want. I look up to Kamo Maseko because of how she conducts herself on the court,” she added.

Apart from netball, Mashaya enjoys running, dancing and reading books. She describes herself as bubbly, energetic, kind and respectful.

“To young girls who want to play netball, train hard and listen to your coaches. Balance it with studies and participate in Nomndayi tournaments.

“I hope people will remember me as the best upcoming netball player within my community and school,” she concluded.

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