Njabulo Hlophe spreading her wings at the NWU Eagles

For Njabulo Hlophe, joining NWU Eagles is about more than just earning court time with the defending Varsity Netball champions. It is an opportunity to add another chapter to a journey built on hard work, setbacks and a growing love for the people she has met through the sport.

The midcourt player joined the Eagles this year for her first Varsity Netball campaign. Hlophe has represented provincial teams and is part of the North West Flames set-up, where she is listed as a centre and wing attack. She also represented the Dr Kenneth Kaunda district during Netball South Africa's 2026 national selection season.

“My netball journey thus far has been transformative,” says Hlophe. “It has not only shaped me as a netball player, but it has also shaped me into the outgoing person I am today.”

She says her sacrifices and experiences have taught her grit, determination and commitment.

“I have truly learned that rejection is redirection and that hard work really does pay off.”

Hlophe says she was attracted to NWU by its student life and the role students play in university structures. On the court, she found a team culture centred on respect, fellowship and representing the university with pride.

Joining the 2025 Varsity Netball champions has also raised expectations, she says.

“It does bring a bit of healthy pressure. It is pressure that makes me want to strive for the extra 1% I can contribute to the team by doing my job.”

Hlophe has featured strongly for the Eagles squad in Varsity Netball 2026 and in their title defence, including their opening 74-31 victory over Madibaz and the 60-59 thriller against UP-Tuks.

For NWU Eagles coach Elsunet du Plessis, Hlophe’s versatility could become an important asset.

“Njabulo is a first-year student who can play wing attack, centre and wing defence. What stands out for me is her versatility and ability to contribute on both attack and defence. She is an athletic and hard-working player who brings good speed, intensity and energy through the midcourt.”

The Varsity Netball #ILoveIt theme carries personal meaning for Hlophe. She says her love for the game is rooted in the friendships she has made.

“It is the sisterhood I built with my netball friends that I have today. These friendships became like family.”

As her first Varsity Netball season unfolds, Hlophe wants supporters to see both sides of her character.

“I hope they will see that I am a team player as well as an outgoing person who loves the game.”

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