Mabopane Square hosted its 4th annual netball championship tournament, where participating teams had the chance to win netball kits, trophies, gold medals, and R4000. Jabu Mahlangu, the centre manager, in partnership with Oasis, Clicks, and Roots Butchery, made it possible for the tournament to be a success.
The tournament was attended by residents of Mabopane and other local communities who gathered to witness the exciting netball action. Teams showcased their impressive performances, vying for bragging rights and aiming to emerge victorious.
Team 123 made it to the finals undefeated and were later crowned the champions of the Mabopane Square Netball Championship after overcoming Titans Netball Club 41-14 in the finals. Titans Netball Club failed to halt the attack led by Gomolemo Mashiane, who was named the player of the tournament for her exceptional attacking skills and scoring accuracy.
Jabu Mahlangu, the centre manager and organizer, mentioned that they chose netball over other sports because it’s easier for them to mark a netball court around the mall compared to searching for a football field. They have also assessed the number of local netball teams that could participate in the tournament, emphasizing that it’s an initiative aimed at empowering girls.
“Since the inaugural tournament three years ago, our aim has been to align ourselves with community-based activities, particularly in sports involving local teams.
“Hosting events like this at Mabopane Square, where the winners receive prizes, not only aids in team development but also serves to promote netball within our local communities,” Mahlangu said.
“From the first game, the teams displayed a winning spirit by not underestimating their opponents. This showcased to the viewers the abundance of talent present. Thanks to Mabopane Square for providing teenagers with the opportunity to showcase their netball abilities”
“This left many people amazed, and they believe that the future of South African netball is in safe hands.” added Mahlangu.
Katlego Mudau, Coach of 123 Team said that the main plan for this tournament was just a practice as much as possible, like every day so that they can rectify their mistakes before they played the tournament because once you commit lots of mistakes, that’s where you lose the game.
“At the moment, I’m really happy with the teams improvement, because we did everything that we wanted to do and also implemented every plan that we had coming to this tournament and I don’t think there is a position that is lacking, at the moment, we are improving from each game,” Coach Mudau said.
“As a team I think we should improve in our combinations going to the next game and finishing strong so that we can always hope for better results,” said Mashiane.
The 123 team from Pretoria West left their mark at Mabopane Square and everyone was giving them a praise for their outstanding perfomance and as a team they are hoping to come back next year even more stronger. Mabopane Square Championship played and yet to play their part in giving a black girl child an opportunity to showcase her talent.
