LIMPOPO – Siphokazi Mpofu, one of the coaches of the Queens Netball Club that lifted the Greater Giyani Mayor’s Cup trophy last year, has been selected to join the coaching staff that will represent Vhembe district at the upcoming Telkom Netball Championships (TNC).

The national tournament, which is scheduled to take place in Boksburg, Gauteng, from July 5-10, is specifically for u/19 players. It brings together top young netball talent from across the country, providing a platform for both players and coaches to showcase their skills on a national stage.

‘Growing in the netball field’

Speaking about her selection, Mpofu expressed excitement and gratitude.

“This means a lot to me because it indicates that I’m growing in the netball field,” she said.

“I would like to thank the Vhembe Netball Association for this opportunity. I’m looking forward to making the most out of it.”

When opportunity comes with a heavy cost

However, alongside her excitement, Mpofu faces a significant financial challenge. The association does not fund the selected coaches’ travel and accommodation expenses.

With fuel prices currently at record highs, a road trip from Limpopo to Gauteng costs a considerable amount of money.

“I therefore need to raise money to cover transport, accommodation, meals, and other tournament-related expenses by myself,” she explained.

“That is why I am asking for donations from anyone who feels they would like to help out,” she said.

According to Mpofu, any contribution, no matter the size, will be welcomed. She plans to add her own savings to whatever is donated to reach at least R3 500, which she estimates will be sufficient to cover her expenses for the tournament.

Ongoing financial pressure beyond July

The financial burden, however, does not end in July.

Mpofu revealed that less than a month after the Telkom Netball Championships, she would be travelling to Cape Town in August with the u/21 netball players and the senior team. For that trip, she needs to raise approximately R6 500.

“So, you can see that taking that kind of money out of my monthly budget is not easy. That’s why I’m appealing to anyone who wishes to donate to come forward and help me help the kids that I am leading.”

Commitment to developing young netball talent

Mpofu’s dedication to developing young netball talent is evident, but without financial support, her ability to attend these important national tournaments remains uncertain.

She is calling on businesses, community members, and netball enthusiasts to assist.

Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can contact Siphokazi Mpofu directly on 083 486 3146.