Madibaz netball skipper warns that those who hesitate will lose

Madibaz captain Hanniska van Vuuren is optimistic her team can rediscover their best form in time for the next round of Varsity Netball matches in Johannesburg this weekend.

The Mandela University side opened their campaign with impressive wins over UP-Tuks and NWU but have since stumbled to three consecutive defeats.

The skipper, however, believes they can bounce back by “playing the Madibaz way”.

“At the beginning we just played the game without overcomplicating things. It was all about listening to and executing the coaches’ instructions.

“As the competition continued, we got into our heads a bit. We realised we could do well and that almost shocked us.”

They now needed to return to the bold, decisive style of play that had brought them early success, she added.

“Some hesitation has definitely crept in. It’s about snapping out of it and realising we just need to do the basics right.”

Van Vuuren urged her teammates to show resilience in the last couple of round-robin matches.

“My message is that every great story has a rocky road and losing a match or two doesn’t mean it’s the end.”

She believes character is proving you can do it when people doubt you.

“And what better way than having 11 teammates beside you to do it with?”

Heading into the final weekend before the playoffs, Madibaz and Maties are level on eight points each and one behind Wits. All three teams are vying for the fourth semifinal spot.

The Madibaz face Kovsies on Sunday and Varsity College on Monday at hosts Wits.

“It’s going to be tough because we know it’s always physical against Kovsies. If we show up, anything can happen,” she said.

“Varsity College are new to Varsity Netball, so it will be exciting to see what they bring to the competition and how we can adapt and counter them.”

With the semis still in reach it is now all about focusing on goal differences.

“At the same time, it’s about taking it one game at a time and not getting carried away with the bigger picture,” Van Vuuren warned.

She also paid tribute to new Proteas cap Juanita van Tonder, who will miss the upcoming games while preparing for an overseas tour.

“Juanita plays a key role in our team but we want to wish her all the best with the Proteas in New Zealand and Australia.

“We’ll support her all the way and are so excited to see where her journey takes her.”

Sunday’s match starts at 5pm and Monday’s at 1pm.