Historic milestone for Maties adding extra motivation in Varsity Netball 2026

Maties are eager to get their Varsity Netball 2026 campaign underway, with the historic milestone of 100 years of Maties Netball adding extra significance to the season.

After a demanding preparation period, Maties head coach Sasha-Lee Petersen believes her players are ready to embrace the challenge and represent the university with pride.

"We are incredibly excited to finally get the tournament underway. A lot of hard work goes into preparing for Varsity Netball and there is always excitement leading up to this tournament. The players have invested countless hours on and off the court and I know they are eager for the opportunity to compete and represent Maties.”

For Petersen, one of the biggest positives from the build-up has been the commitment shown by her squad, particularly as the players juggle their academic responsibilities alongside the demands of high-level sport.

"Balancing the demands of being a student-athlete is never easy, particularly during a busy academic period, yet the players have consistently shown up with a willingness to learn, improve and challenge themselves.

"They have embraced the process, held each other accountable and created an environment where everyone is working towards a common goal."

The coach also understands the significance of Varsity Netball, having experienced the competition from both sides of the court. Petersen believes the tournament provides players with an opportunity to test themselves against some of the country's best university teams while creating lasting memories.

"Varsity Netball is one of the best competitions in university sport and provides a unique platform for student-athletes to showcase their talent. For our players, it is an opportunity to represent your university and play at home in front of your home crowd.

"The atmosphere, the crowds and the opportunity to compete at such a high level create memories that last a lifetime. It is a competition that challenges you, develops you and brings people together through a shared passion for the game."

With expectations building ahead of Sunday's opening fixture, Petersen says supporters can expect a team that embodies the values of the Maties programme.

"We want to play a style of netball that reflects who we are as Maties – disciplined, connected, resilient and hardworking. We have a group of players who are committed to each other and to the dress they represent. While results are important, we want supporters to see a team that fights for every ball, embraces every challenge and leaves everything on the court. We hope to make our Maties family very proud."

Maties Provisional Squad:

Iselle Acker, Suhani Ahuja, Lara Ehlers, Cara Els, Lisa Ingwersen, Hannah Kriel, Chris-Marie Marx, Giselle Maritz, Kristen McGregor, Vinah Mokgatle, Miriam Ndjadi, Zahrah Noah, Bianca Odendaal, Lize Rossouw, Ovayo Sibelekwana, Thabisa Yekani.

Fixtures HERE.

Tickets HERE. 

By: Ayanda Frances Felem