Local stars and big crowds expected as EG Jansen gears up for record-breaking netball championships

Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen is preparing to host one of the biggest editions of the SPAR National Netball Championships yet, with more than 300 teams expected and record entries attributed to the school’s central location and top-tier facilities.

According to their netball director, Melandri Geldenhuys, the under-21 and senior provincial tournament will bring elite players, national selectors, top university coaches and former Proteas to Boksburg from December 1 to 6.

“This is a massive tournament. All the provincial teams from across the country are coming so spectators can expect exceptional netball,” Geldenhuys said.

A showcase of local talent
Boksburg supporters will have plenty of homegrown talent to cheer for. Three EG Jansen representatives have been selected for the Ekurhuleni teams: Bernice Barnard, Roxy-Lee van Rooyen and Marianka Theron (one of the school’s coaches who was selected for a senior provincial side).

“We’re incredibly proud. These girls work unbelievably hard. They train after hours, they put in the extra sessions and they grab every opportunity,” Geldenhuys said.

Another local player may still be called up pending injury assessments.

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A stepping stone to higher honours
Geldenhuys emphasised that the Championships play a key role in identifying South Africa’s next generation of elite athletes.

“All the top coaches need to be involved in this event to qualify to coach at higher levels. That means the country’s best eyes are here. For players, this is the first step toward SA U21, senior provincial squads and the Brutal Fruit league.”

She added that some current and former Brutal Fruit players will also feature, giving younger athletes a chance to measure themselves against high-level competition.

The main matches will be hosted on EG Jansen’s 10 courts while Concordia’s facilities will be used for games, bringing the total to 16 courts in play.

With thousands of participants and supporters expected daily, Geldenhuys said the school has been working closely with Netball South Africa and SPAR to ensure a smooth event.

“We look after our grounds all year, so they chose EG Jansen because our facilities are always ready. We’re making sure everything runs well for the organisers.”

Boost for local economy
Hotels and guesthouses across Boksburg and the surrounding areas are already filling up.

“All teams, even local ones, are booking accommodation. It’s going to be fantastic for businesses in our area,” she said.

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Geldenhuys encouraged the community to attend and support the tournament.

“This is some of the best netball in the country right here on our doorstep. We’d love the community to come out, watch and support all the teams.”