The SPAR Baby Proteas received a heartfelt send-off at an exclusive farewell dinner hosted by SPAR and Netball South Africa in Sandton on September 8, ahead of their departure to Gibraltar for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup.

Read more: Proteas men shine as South Africa celebrates ICC World Test Championship victory

The dinner brought together players, management, sponsors, and supporters to celebrate the national youth team’s journey and rally behind them as they prepare to compete on the world stage.
Head coach Precious Mthembu expressed pride in the squad’s growth since qualifying for the tournament last year. “Since last year’s qualifiers, we have grown, not only on court, but also as a family. The bonds we have built go beyond just being teammates. Tonight, we honour everyone who has made this possible, our sponsors, coaches, management, and leaders in netball. You have given us belief, resources, and opportunities, and for that we are truly grateful.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth SPAR’s national PR, communications, and sponsorship manager Mpudi Maubane gives words of encouragement to the SPAR Baby Proteas on September 8, 2025. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #Sandton #Cricket ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

The Baby Proteas Captain, Phophi Nematangari, urged her teammates to embrace the responsibility of representing South Africa. “We have trained together, carried each other through the highs and lows, and now it is time to carry that spirit forward. We play not just for ourselves, but for every young girl back home who dreams of being here one day. We have sown the seeds with our hard work and sacrifice, now it’s time to reap the rewards and rise together.”

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