Madibaz flying starts see them go top of the Varsity Netball 2025 log

Two rounds into Varsity Netball 2025, Madibaz are the surprise package of this year’s tournament. They are sitting at the top of the log after pulling off thrilling victories over UP-Tuks (62-47) and NWU (52-48) in Stellenbosch.

Madibaz stalwart Hanniska van Vuuren has however cautioned against complacency following her team’s flying start. Now in her fourth year with the side, it is especially rewarding for Van Vuuren to see how the team’s preparation is bearing fruit.

“It has been a really good start but we know there’s still a long way to go,” the 21-year-old, who was named player of the match against Tuks in the tournament-opener, warned.

“There are some bumper weekends ahead, so we need to stay focused and keep our eyes on the end goal.”

Van Vuuren, who mainly does duty as wing and goal attack, believes discipline in sticking to the strategy has been central to their success.

“Mainly, I think it comes down to listening to our coaches. They know the game better than we do and by following their instructions and executing them on court we’ve been able to perform well as a team.”

Born and bred in Gqeberha, Van Vuuren’s rise in the sport has included selection for various representative teams with her career highlight being an invite to participate in the national senior trials earlier this year.

“Even though I didn’t make the Proteas team, it was a huge privilege. It reminded me that no dream is too big if you keep working hard and showing up,” she says.

She has been capped at U19 and U21 level and was a member of the University Sports South Africa team that took part in the CUCSA Games in Pretoria last season. She also turns out for the Eastern Cape Aloes in the Telkom Netball League.

Van Vuuren is no stranger to putting in the hard yards when it counts and is grateful for the opportunities that come her way.

“Right now I’m just taking things day by day, working hard and dreaming big. The future will unfold as long as I keep showing up.”

Her focus now is on helping Madibaz keep their winning momentum when they face Wits in their next fixture in Bloemfontein on Monday 1 September.

Full fixture list HERE.