Kwa-Thema – Lethabo Bangani (11) is proving that talent knows no gender boundaries as he continues to make his mark in netball while inspiring other young boys to pursue their passion for the sport.
Bangani plays wing attack for the Kwa-Thema netball team.

He enjoys creating scoring opportunities for his teammates and loves feeding the goal shooter and goal attack.

Bangani’s journey in netball began when he was only six years old. “Growing up around the courts, frequently accompanied by my aunt, who is the head coach of the team, to training sessions, developed a love for netball.

“I was always at the netball court when my coach and the team went for training. My aunt encouraged me to play and helped me fall in love with the sport,” he explained.

Bangani’s biggest highlight of his career was during the Region E League games at Brakpan Stadium.

At the time, Bangani was the only male player participating in the development league from Region E.

“We were playing at Brakpan Stadium, and the Kwa-Thema netball team was the only team with a male player.

“The spectators were impressed with my performance, and many people approached my coach to ask questions about me. Some players even wanted to know how old I was,” he stated.

The biggest highlight of the moment was the impact it had on other teams.

“After that league game, every other team in Region E started having male players on their teams. I feel proud knowing that I helped open doors for other boys to play netball.

“Overall, I admit that the journey has not always been easy,” he said.

“Some of my peers laugh at me and say I am gay because I play netball. Sometimes it makes me feel ashamed, but I also play soccer, and that helps me overcome the stigma.”

Bangani remain proud of his achievements, saying his coaches are focused on developing an attacking style of play.

“Our coaches are teaching us to be an attacking team because netball is about scoring goals.

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“They encourage us to move the ball quickly and create more scoring opportunities,” he explained.

The young athlete hopes to see one of his teammates one day represent the Telkom Netball League or the national team. When it comes to role models, Bangani draws inspiration from both netball and soccer.

“My role model in netball is Njabulo Nekevhamba from the Male Proteas, and in soccer it is Neymar Junior from Brazil because they are disciplined and skilful players. I definitely see myself becoming a professional player one day,” he said.

Away from netball, he enjoys spending Sundays with his family. After attending church and Sunday school, he and his brothers organise soccer matches at Riba Park, where they spend the afternoon playing and staying active.

Bangani believes sport and discipline can help young people stay focused and avoid negative influences.

“I want young people to know that there are things that can keep you on the right path in life, and the choice is yours.

“Respecting elders and staying committed to positive activities can make a big difference,” he concluded.

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