Tuks enter Varsity Netball 2025 with reshaped squad and a new head coach

Varsity Netball 2025 is here with the top eight universities battling it out for the coveted trophy. UP-Tuks are entering a new chapter under the guidance of newly appointed head coach, Amanda Mynhardt.

The Pretoria side reached the semi-finals in last year, but head into this campaign with a reshaped squad after losing several key players to national duty. Despite the changes, Mynhardt is confident in the group she has assembled.

“I am very privilege to step into the new role as head coach of Tuks netball. It’s a dynamic and competitive environment, players are willing to work hard and for me that’s a reward as a coach to work with players that commit to the program. It is an honour to be part of the team.”

The challenge has been significant, with six players from Tuks’ high performance group called up to the South African U21 side, including stars like Phophi Nematangari and Kyla Dames. To keep the team competitive, Mynhardt said she worked on building squad depth and settling new combinations, and she is eager to see how the new faces step up.

“I am looking forward to see how these new players will go out and play, I am excited to what they do with the opportunity and if they step up and that will show me we built squad depth for the future.”

Tuks open their 2025 campaign against Madibaz before facing newcomers Varsity College.

“Every team goes into the competition to win it and we will take it week by week and game for game and work our way to the finish. Every game is a tough one in Varsity Netball. I am excited for the opening clash.”

UP-Tuks squad (subject to change): Georgia de Jongh, Mila Dijkstra, Erin Girodo, Zionné Grobler, Megan Holland, Elri Jacobs, Ilani Klopper, Juané Kruger, Devonne Lansberg, Lebo Moremme, Thando Ngcobo, Caroline Paul, Nompha Raphalalani, Tinstwalo Sithole, Anja van den Heever, Venece van Vollenhoven, Marichelle Visagie, Skye Watson, Jamie Williamson.

Tuks opening matches

24 August: Tuks vs Madibaz, 5pm, Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, live on SuperSport

25 August: Varsity College vs Tuks, 3pm, Coetzenburg Indoor Centre, live on SuperSport

Full fixture list HERE.  

More information on tickets HERE.   

by Lehlogonolo Ditshego