The recently completed DStv Schools Netball Challenge (DSNC), backed by Bestmed Medical Scheme and supported by Puma coaching clinics, marked a significant milestone in preparing young netball talent for the national stage. Multichoice CSI Manager for sports programs, Sandile Luthuli, expressed pride in the success of the initiative, which served as a build-up to the upcoming national finals scheduled for 25–26 July at Hoërskool Dr. E.G. Jansen in Boksburg.
Targeted Preparation Across Provinces
Four provinces—Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo—hosted the Puma-powered clinics, reaching 10 schools participating in the DSNC national finals. These coaching sessions formed part of a collaboration between Multichoice and global sportswear brand Puma, tailored specifically for schools in the Ubuntu stream.
Empowering Dreams Through Sport
The DSNC, a partnership between Multichoice and the South African Schools Netball (SASN), aims to uplift young players and grow the sport at the grassroots level. According to Luthuli, the program not only prepared teams for competition but also left a lasting impression on the players. “Our goal was to inspire the kids leading up to the nationals and help them elevate their game,” he said. “Although we reached four provinces this year, we’re planning to expand to all nine next year, especially to include girls in remote areas.”
He emphasized the importance of representation, ensuring every girl understands her dreams are valid, no matter where she comes from. “Whether you’re from Kayamandi or Kokstad, your dream to play netball is achievable,” he added, thanking Bestmed and Puma for aligning with Multichoice’s holistic approach to youth development.
Puma’s Grassroots Commitment
Puma South Africa’s Sports Sponsorship Coordinator, Nandi Buthelezi, reflected on the clinics’ impact: “Being on the ground with the girls and watching our ambassadors engage with them was incredible. A highlight was visiting Kokstad, the hometown of our ambassador, Fifi. Where she inspired many aspiring athletes firsthand.”
Buthelezi highlighted Puma’s ongoing dedication to developing netball from the ground up. “Partnering with the DSNC allows us to be involved where it all begins. Many of the professional athletes we support were discovered through programs like this one.”
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