SEDIBENG.- The Vaal sports fraternity is in mourning following the tragic death of local netball rising star Katleho Mile, who was killed in a car accident alongside two others over the weekend.

Tragically, one of the others who passed away is Katleho’s brother, Daddie Mile.

Their father, Mohlouwa Mile, said they are very sad about the passing of his children and added that they are going to be missed. He confirmed with Sedibeng Ster Sport that the family is busy with funeral arrangements for this coming weekend.

The third person who lost his life during this accident is Lesedi Ledwaba.

Mile recently represented the region as part of the Sedibeng Netball U21B Team at the Spar Netball National Championships in Cape Town earlier this month, helping her side claim a silver medal.

Her passing was confirmed to Sedibeng Ster Sport by Sedibeng Netball Federation Chairperson Fakazile Nkitseng, who directed the publication to her club, Cheetahs Netball Club, for further details.

Mathapelo Motaung, founder of Cheetahs Netball Club, shared a heartfelt tribute on the club’s behalf following the tragedy. Motaung said the club members feel completely shattered and heartbroken, noting that they still cannot believe the loss.

Describing Mile as an energetic, bubbly, and humble person who always spoke her mind, Motaung highlighted her leadership qualities and readiness to take charge of any task given to her.

Mile joined the club’s family in 2025 by attending training sessions before officially joining as a member in January and becoming a full member of the Sedibeng Netball Federation.

During her time with the club, she actively assisted with umpiring during practice games and played in the Emfuleni league. Alongside her selection for the Sedibeng U21B team at the Spar Championships in Cape Town, she was appointed as the team manager for the U23 men’s team for the upcoming championships in the Eastern Cape.

She was one of the best players at the national championships.

Motaung said that Mile will forever be remembered as an integral and cherished part of the club.

Khabo Mtimkulu, head coach of the Sedibeng Netball U21B Team and a teammate of Mile at Cheetahs Netball Club, also expressed deep shock and sorrow, stating that she still could not believe Mile was gone.

“We are all devastated by this news. She was one of the best players at the national championships. As the Cheetahs Netball Team, we want to send condolences to her family and friends,” said an emotional Mtimkulu.

Mtimkulu described her as a loving and communicative person who was always willing to go out of her way to help others.

Zakhele Mtshali, Mile’s former coach at Town Stars FC, learned of the passing through one of his players. Mile previously played for the club’s U13 and U15 football teams before choosing to focus entirely on netball. Mtshali said that she was the only girl playing for the club at the time, praising her immense talent and dedication to sport. “She loved sports. As Town Stars FC, we sent condolences to Mile’s family, friends and teammates,” said Mtshali.