PEP Mini Netball expands nationwide to uncover young stars
The PEP Mini Netball initiative, in partnership with South African Schools Netball, is reaching more young players than ever before, offering training, festivals, and expert coaching across South Africa.
Young netball players across South Africa have reason to celebrate as PEP expands its popular PEP Mini Netball programme to all nine provinces. In partnership with South African Schools Netball (SASN), this initiative continues to provide opportunities for U7, U8, and U9 girls to learn and enjoy the sport, while building confidence and teamwork.
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Launched in 2023 in Gauteng, the Free State, and the Western Cape, the programme expanded to Limpopo, North West, and the Northern Cape in 2024. Now, in 2025, it reaches even further, welcoming aspiring players from KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape. This expansion ensures that more young girls, as well as coaches, can develop their skills and contribute to the growth of netball in South Africa.
Beyers van der Merwe, chief marketing officer at PEP, expressed his excitement about the programme’s growth. “This is a truly proud moment for PEP Mini Netball. By reaching all nine provinces, more young girls can discover their love for the sport. By encouraging untapped talent in the community, we can help the future generation of players and coaches with the confidence they need to chase their dreams.”
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As part of this commitment, PEP will host 40 netball festivals, and nine coaching sessions, across South Africa in 2025. These events will not only improve netball skills but also foster a sense of community among young players and their families.
The coaching sessions will once again feature top netball experts, including:
• Dumisani Chauke: PEP Mini Netball ambassador and former Spar Proteas assistant coach,
• Dr Elsje Jordaan: Sports scientist from Sportisimo and Golden Fireballs coach, and
• Minnette Dempsey: Motivational speaker and Team Culture coach from Sportisimo.
Their knowledge and passion have inspired many young players and coaches, giving them the skills and confidence to grow netball at the grassroots level.
Di Woolley, president of SASN, praised PEP’s support, saying: “The PEP Mini Netball festivals and coaching sessions continue to be a powerful tool for youth development. We are excited to see the programme expand to all nine provinces, creating even more opportunities for girls to grow, excel, and be inspired by the sport of netball.”
With this nationwide expansion, the PEP Mini Netball programme is set to make a lasting impact on young netballers, ensuring that love for the sport continues to grow in communities across South Africa.
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