It was a hive of activity at Emaxulwini Primary School in Hammersdale when SPAR Proteas wing attacker and Stand Tall ambassador, Bongi Msomi hosted the second of four Stand Tall netball clinics.
The event was aimed at providing skills and a basic understanding of the game for the young netball enthusiasts in Kwa-Zulu Natal last weekend.
The Stand Tall clinic was hosted by the Msomi Legacy Project and Telkom, a premium partner of the upcoming 2023 Netball World Cup tournament.
According to the skipper of the Proteas, Msomi said she never pictured herself as a professional netball player.
“As a teenager, I had little interest in netball. I never pictured herself playing netball professionally or better yet for the national team. However, one training session in high school changed my life for the better,” she said.
With approximately 80 aspiring netballers attending the fun-filled event, there was a positive energy, passion and excitement as all the high school students were keen to showcase their skills to Msomi.
Thriving on hard work, focus and mental health, Msomi is already looking forward to her third netball World Cup in 2023 as it will be staged in South Africa – she is currently employed full-time as a netball mentor.
In addition, Msomi attributed the foundation of her netball stardom to her former teacher and mentor, Sthembiso Mncwabe who worked extra hours, making sure she got the extra attention in order to learn and catch up with the rest of the group.
“It was an honour and a privilege to be part of this initiative. I hope this clinic will not only help upskill the youth students in attendance but will inspire them and show them that with hard work, dedication and discipline, anything is possible,” said Mncwabe.
Mncwabe also expressed saying that coming from a small town like Hammersdale, there are few successful sports stories or successful sports stars. However, through Msomi’s achievements, she continues to be a beacon of hope for the upcoming boys and girls.
Msomi’s hard work and experience has earned her a spot in the World Cup SPAR Proteas squad and her story should be a paragon to aspiring netball players and the youth of South Africa.
Main Image: Bongi Msomi/SABC Sport
