Varsity Netball gets off to a cracking start
JOBURG - UJ started their Varsity Netball campaign in fine style with a 79-25 demolition of Vaal University of Technology (VUT) on 14 September.
The match was held at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto sports hall.
The UJ team was ruthless in their execution, as VUT got a tough introduction to the competition. The home side got out of the blocks quickly as they took the game to VUT, and by the first power play they were already 16-5 up.
Although they were right up against it, VUT fought back valiantly, and kept UJ’s lead to 20-9 at the first strategy break.
By halftime, UJ’s dominance was clear as they were firmly in control with a 35-16 advantage, leaving VUT with it all to do in the second half. The home side wrapped up the bonus point in the third quarter, and went into the final break with a commanding 55-21 advantage.
It was more of the same in the final stages, as UJ cantered to what was a comfortable victory in the end.
Deancke Rohde was announced as the FNB player of the match.
The other three matches were held at the Callie Human Centre in Bloemfontein; SANDF Kopanelo Hall in North West University in Potchefstroom; and the University of Cape Town’s sports centre in Cape Town. The six-week tournament features eight of South Africa’s best netball-playing varsities.
Duitser Bosman, CEO of Varsity Sports said netball was the fastest growing women’s sport in South Africa.
“South Africa will without a doubt be the top three in the world in years to come. Our minister is embracing Varsity Netball and netball as a whole, leading to the growth of this sport in our country,” he said.
Last year, the Varsity Netball tournament trophy went to Kovsies after a gruelling final against North West University.
Carrying a five-year exclusive broadcast agreement with SuperSport, the Varsity Netball tournament is aired each Monday night on Channel 210.
