Braves Netball Club from Marcus Garvey, Philippi (Lower Crossroads) is appealing to local businesses to assist members with funds to fulfil their dream of representing the Western Cape in the National Twizza Netball Club Champions.
The club won the provincial championship, held at the Paarl Tennis Court in Paarl on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September.
Their heroics have opened the door to travelling to Gqeberha for the national tournament, which takes place from Friday 22 to Tuesday 26 September at Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
The Braves’ head coach Nelson Maphika praised his team for showing commitment. He said they made history by becoming the first team from black communities to play in the national tournament.
“It was our first time participating in this tournament,” he said.
“We didn’t expect that we would go too far since we were participating for the first time. And taking part in the national tournament is a motivation on its own.”
Maphika said their major challenge now are the sneakers and tights for the players. She said some of the players don’t have them and the ones of those are now old.
“This is a huge tournament, which is going to be televised on Supersport television. So, when they appear on television we would like them to look good.
“I’d love them to look presentable, like any other team. There will be scouts there, and maybe one of them will be lucky to be selected to play for the national women’s team.”
Regarding all the other expenses, Maphika said they will all be covered.