Midrand netball star seeks financial support after earning England tour selection
Fifteen-year-old Mpho Netshisaulu, from Nova Pioneer, has been selected to represent her school on a netball tour to England, and is appealing for sponsorship to help make her dream a reality alongside teammate and best friend Naledi Setaka.
Young netball talent Mpho Netshisaulu, from Vorna Valley, is hoping the community, and local businesses, will rally behind her after being selected to travel to England on an international netball tour.
The 15-year-old Grade 9 learner at Nova Pioneer, and dedicated Midrand Royals Netball Club player, has earned the opportunity to represent her school on the international tour in November. Mpho said she first started playing netball in 2021 as an extracurricular activity at school. Her passion for the sport soon grew, prompting her to join Midrand Royals Netball Club to further develop her skills through regular training and competitive matches.
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Joining her on the tour is fellow Nova Pioneer learner, Midrand Royals teammate, and best friend Naledi Setaka, who was also selected for the trip.
The pair earned their places after impressing selectors while representing Nova Pioneer in a netball tournament, showcasing the skills they have developed through both their school and club.
For Mpho, the selection is the reward for years of dedication, discipline, and commitment to the sport she loves. Balancing schoolwork with regular training sessions, the young player has continued to improve her game, while proudly representing both Nova Pioneer and Midrand Royals.
The tour is set to provide the young athletes with an opportunity to compete against international opposition, experience different coaching methods, and broaden their understanding of the game. For both players, it is also the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
Despite the excitement surrounding the selection, the financial cost of travelling overseas remains a challenge. They are appealing to the community for sponsorship and financial assistance to help make the trip possible.
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Mpho’s mother, Charmaine Netshisaulu, said she is proud of her daughter’s achievement. “What makes this opportunity even more special is Mpho’s determination. She wakes up early for training and attends every session without anyone having to remind her. Her dedication to netball is inspiring.”
The opportunity is especially meaningful, after Mpho previously missed out on another international tour to Dubai because of financial constraints.
With Naledi also preparing for the England tour, the two friends are excited about the opportunity to represent their school together on the international stage.
Community members and businesses interested in supporting Mpho’s journey are encouraged to come forward and help make her dream come true by donating through the link below on the Midrand Royals’ Facebook page.
Speaking about what support from the community would mean to them, the two young players shared their excitement. “I’d be very happy, because, firstly, I’ll be travelling with my friend and we’ll be able to share this experience together. Secondly, we’ll be going overseas to do something we love and are passionate about,” said Mpho.
“It would be heartwarming to see everyone come together to help two children from the community pursue something they love most and fulfil their dreams,” added Naledi.
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