Bryanston’s netball phenomenon sweeps top awards
Luvolwethu Cabangana started ‘just trying something new,’ and now she’s one of the most exciting young netball stars in Gauteng.
Thirteen-year-old netball sensation Luvolwethu Cabangana has cemented her place as one of Bryanston Primary School’s brightest young athletes after walking away with three major honours at the school’s 2025 Sport and Culture Awards: Victrix Ludorum, Netball Player of the Year, and Netball Colours.
Her achievements crown what has been a standout year of exceptional performances both on the court and at the provincial level.
Luvolwethu’s journey in sport began in Grade 3, when she decided to try something new with her friends.
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What started as a simple curiosity has blossomed into a passion that now defines her young sporting career. Today, netball is more than just an activity; it is her world. “This sport means everything to me. It has taught me how to tolerate people I may not always get along with, and to smile no matter what.”
Her rise has been supported by a strong circle around her. She credits her coach as a major influence in her development. “I trust her so much. She has been there for me from the very start until now,” Luvolwethu said.
She also expresses deep gratitude to her mother, who has encouraged her at every stage of her journey. “My mom has been there since I started playing netball. She always tells me to never give up, and I appreciate her so much.”
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Beyond school, Luvolwethu has enjoyed a successful year in competitive action netball. She was part of the Fourways Falcons netball team that competed in the Gauteng Super League, finishing in an impressive fourth place.
She also represented Gauteng in the U13 SA Schools Netball team, where her squad secured another fourth-place finish.
In the Action Sport Schools Netball U14 division, she continued her winning momentum.
Her team at Fourways Falcons finished the season ranked number one, advancing to the playoffs at Atterbury Action Sports Arena, where they earned third place and a bronze medal. These accomplishments underscore a year marked not only by talent but by resilience and discipline.
For Luvolwethu, the success she is experiencing today still feels surreal. “It feels amazing because little me would never have thought I’d achieve such big awards. I’m very proud of myself for putting in the work and never giving up.”
Despite the pressure and intensity of competition, she describes her experience of the sport as ‘stressful, fun, and scary all at the same time,’ but one of the highlights remains the friendships she has made along the way. “Making new friends is my favourite part. I love socialising with new people.”
Looking to the future, Luvolwethu has big dreams and the determination to chase them. “Next time I go back on court, I will fight until the last whistle and trust my teammates more.”
She envisions herself one day playing for the SPAR Proteas, travelling overseas to compete, and ultimately appearing on TV as a recognised professional athlete. “I would like to be remembered as someone who works for what she wants and who is kind and caring.”
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