Wits relying on team spirit for Varsity Netball 2026 success

With two wins and then pushing powerhouses UJ and UFS Kovsies all the way, Wits are still gunning for a semi-final spot in Varsity Netball 2026.

In the second game against Madibaz, 21-year-old Biomedical Engineering student and captain Giada Prinsloo locked down the same accolade at Goal Shooter.

The team has built their culture around informal off-court “jam sessions” that have translated into fearless on-court execution.

For captain Giada Prinsloo, protecting the culture of acceptance is second nature. She credits her leadership style to former Wits captain Panashe Chiranga.

“She was the best role model I could ever ask for, so everything I learned on how to be a leader literally came from her. The first-years coming in now get the same feeling of being accepted without stressing to fit in.

“We are genuinely friends. When you're close, playing together becomes second nature. If it's your turn to sit on the bench, you're happy for the player on court.”

This rapid inclusion completely erased pre-season anxiety for specialist wing defence Kekeletso Molotsi, who secured the player of the match award after seamlessly pivoting to centre against CUT.

“The welcoming made me free, before that, I didn't know what to expect. I was scared (but) after the icebreaker I felt that I could work with them,” Molotsi reflects.

“These girls are my sisters now. It feels like we are one duet, whoever gets onto the court is supported 100%.”

Wits has been able to successfully leverage their emotional cohesion under high pressure. Molotsi says that when she was thrown into an unfamiliar centre position on debut, the team didn't panic, they organically adjusted around her.

“Everyone just adjusted and made it work. I was confident because I know my girls have my back.”

This type of environment forces personal growth, even for veterans, says Prinsloo.

“I’ve always been very quiet and introverted. Being in this position has forced me to be more vocal. While playing in the zone, you have to multitask. If you see the energy dropping, you have to get vocal and start thinking for everyone around you.”

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE