Lambalati’s TV success fuels growth as Mpumalanga schools battle for glory

The inspiring televised run by Lambalati Secondary School in last year’s DSTV Schools Netball Challenge (DSNC) has sparked a wave of excitement and participation across Mpumalanga, as 20 schools prepare to clash for a place on the national stage.

Lambalati, who clinched silver in the Ubuntu stream final broadcast live on SuperSport, has become a beacon of hope and ambition for netball schools in the province.

Their back-to-back medal finishes have not only showcased Mpumalanga’s growing strength but also ignited interest among previously unengaged schools.

Mpumalanga Schools Netball chairperson Gerrie Olivier says Lambalati’s performance and national exposure have been key in increasing participation in this year’s DSNC qualifiers.

“We are very excited. We always do well at the national level. Lambalati (Secondary School) got medals two years in a row. Our other schools like Hoërskool Secunda came fifth last year. There is still a bit of growth in the number of Ubuntu schools that have registered to play this year and it is attributed to being on national television last year, seeing Lambalati (play). We have seen growth. It has meant a lot to the girls,” says Olivier.

The provincial qualifiers will be hosted by Hoër Tegniese Skool Witbank, where teams will compete for one of four coveted spots at the national finals set for 25-26 July at Hoërskool Dr. E.G. Jansen in Boksburg.

The DSNC, powered by Bestmed Medical Scheme and in partnership with MultiChoice and SA Schools Netball (SASN), continues to be a crucial platform for identifying young talent and giving players from all backgrounds a shot at national recognition.

While talent will be on display, Olivier believes discipline will determine who earns the right to represent the province.

“When it comes to championship netball, it’s talent meets talent. The most important thing will be discipline on the day -- the discipline to listen to the coach, to adapt to the umpires' calls and to properly prepare. I always believe that when talent meets talent, discipline wins,” she says.

With rising enthusiasm, growing numbers, and role models like Lambalati leading the way, Mpumalanga’s netball future is burning bright -- and the battle for provincial glory is officially on.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

UBUNTU

Madzuma High School, Khula sakhile Secondary School, Lambalati Secondary School, Sibongamandla Secondary School, Sidlamafa Senior Secondary School, Chief Ampie Mayisa Secondary School, Hlomani Secondary School

BOTHO

Hoërskool Nelspruit, Hoërskool Delmas, Piet Retief High School, Hoërskool Lydenburg, Middelburg Hoërskool, Ligbron Academy of Technology, Hoërskool Bergvlam, Hoër Tegniese Skool Middelburg, Hoërskool Secunda, Curro Nelspruit, Hoër Tegniese Skool Witbank, Hoërskool Ermelo, Kleinwater College - Witbank