Johannesburg Shines in Thrilling Spar National Netball Championships
Ellis Park Arena came alive with excitement on Saturday, 7 December 2024, as the City of Johannesburg hosted the highly anticipated Spar National Netball Championship finals. In a spectacular talent showcase, the under-21 and senior Johannesburg teams claimed championship victories, filling local supporters with pride, and winning their third consequtive title.
In the under-21 final, Johannesburg A squared off against Tshwane A in a high-energy encounter. Under the expert leadership of coach Bongiwe Msomi, Johannesburg A secured a decisive 42-32 win. This victory not only marked Msomi’s triumphant debut at the Spar National Championship but also cemented her team’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
The senior category provided even greater drama, as Johannesburg A narrowly edged out Mangaung A in a heart-stopping match. The final score, 53-52, reflected the nail-biting intensity of the game, with Johannesburg A clinching their third consecutive championship title in front of an ecstatic home crowd.
Jane Nwahlengani Mbombi, chairperson of the Johannesburg Netball Association, expressed her joy after the matches: “Nothing is greater than winning at home in front of a home crowd. Both the under-21 A and senior A divisions were tough ones, but discipline carried us through.”
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Margaret Arnolds, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Finance, stood in for Executive Mayor Dada Morero to present medals and trophies to the victorious teams. She commended their dedication and praised the City of Johannesburg for fostering the growth of netball and other sports.
The finals drew a passionate crowd of netball enthusiasts, including Phuti Moja, 51, who described the event as unforgettable. “It’s always exciting to watch these talented players in action. Netball is such a beautiful game, and seeing the teams fight so hard for their victories reminds us why this sport deserves more recognition,” she said.
The Spar National Netball Championship finals once again demonstrated the incredible skill and determination of South African players while highlighting the City of Johannesburg’s commitment to promoting sports at all levels. For Johannesburg’s netball fans, it was a day to celebrate not just victories but also the enduring spirit of the game.
