Madibaz ready to embrace new generation in Varsity Netball 2026

Aug 21

2 min read

Madibaz head coach Jeanie Steyn is heading into her third Varsity Netball campaign at the helm, with a young squad eager to make its mark when Varsity Netball 2026 gets underway.

Steyn has grown into the coaching role since making the transition from player to head coach, and says the experience has given her a new perspective on the demands and responsibilities that come with leading a team.

“This will be my third year coaching Madibaz at Varsity Netball. I have now settled into the coaching position. The hotseat is still very hot, but the more you coach the more confidence you get in your decisions,” says Steyn.

While she has embraced the challenge, Steyn admits there are still moments when she misses being on court.

“Every time it is powerplay I still miss being on court. I've enjoyed this role. I think being a head coach of a team you learn a lot about yourself and the impact your energy can have on other people. It comes with great responsibility and challenges which makes the reward so much more impactful.”

Six players will be making their Varsity Netball debuts, with the majority of the squad made up of first- and second-year students.

“I can feel the players are excited. They have been working hard and have been adapting well to all the challenges that we faced this year,” says Steyn.

The young players will have experienced campaigners to lean on, with Edon Snyman, Inganathi Sepepa and Juanita van Tonder bringing valuable knowledge of the Varsity Netball environment.

“They are familiar with the platform and know what level of netball to expect. Their experience will set the standard for the younger players,” says Steyn.

For Madibaz, the make-up of the squad also provides an opportunity to build for the future, with the young group able to gain valuable experience early in their university careers.

“We mostly have first and second years, which is great for building a new team and allowing them to gain this experience so early in their university netball careers.”

Madibaz Provisional Squad: Jessica Strydom, Bronwyn Goosen, Busi Vayo, Haniska van Vuuren, Simone Louw, Edon Snyman, Inganathi Sapepa, Keagile Magadla, Juanita van Tonder, Luchwayito Tshandu, Yazi Dumbela, Kearabetsoe Kau, Leila Nel, Neviera Gunn, Ogiyonke Mabani, Yonda Nokwe, Inge van Wyk, Amber Lister, Motheo Moeng, Sbongile Gwaxu.

Fixtures HERE.

Tickets HERE.