Renowned South African netballer Bongi Msomi recently spoke out about the disparity in support between South Africa’s netball and rugby teams, expressing her belief that better backing could have led to World Cup success for her squad in 2023. While the Springboks, South Africa’s male rugby team, clinched their fourth Rugby World Cup title, the netballers finished sixth at the 2023 Netball World Cup, held in Cape Town.
Msomi, a record caps holder for the Proteas, emphasized that the Springboks’ success can be attributed to the extensive support they receive in contrast to the limited resources available to netballers. She called on sponsors to get involved with the netball team, acknowledging that although progress is being made, there are still unmet needs.
One significant hurdle for South African netball is its lack of professional infrastructure. Unlike nations like Australia, which boasts a professional Super Netball League, netball in South Africa isn’t professionally run. Msomi highlighted the long-term commitment required to win a World Cup and the challenges posed by frequent changes in the team’s composition due to player retirements and injuries.
One key factor that worked against South Africa’s netball squad in the 2023 World Cup was the limited time available for preparation compared to the Springboks. While the Springboks spent months gearing up for their Rugby World Cup campaign, the netball team had less time to prepare, reflecting the disparity in resources.
Despite these challenges, there were bright moments, such as a thrilling comeback draw against New Zealand. Msomi cited this result as proof of the potential of South African netball, even in the face of adversity. However, she also pointed out the inconsistency in performance, exemplified by a significant defeat to Jamaica, which she attributed to the lack of a professional league to consistently compete at a high level.
Msomi, who recently retired, now plans to dedicate more time to initiatives aimed at developing sports and acting as an ambassador for projects that involve communities in netball and other sports. She stressed the importance of providing facilities and coaches in rural areas to nurture talent and create opportunities for aspiring athletes.
As one of the most prominent South African sports stars managed by Roc Nation Sports, she hopes to inspire the next generation of athletes. While she may have hung up her netball shoes, the door remains open for her to continue contributing to the sport she loves.
Msomi’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes in less-supported sports and the importance of leveling the playing field to unlock their full potential. With increased corporate support and a focus on developing infrastructure, South African netball has the potential to become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Netball Disparity
Q: What is the key issue raised by Bongi Msomi regarding South African netball in the 2023 World Cup?
A: Bongi Msomi highlights the disparity in support between South African netball and rugby teams, suggesting that better backing could have led to better results for the netball squad in the 2023 World Cup.
Q: How did South Africa’s netball team perform in the 2023 Netball World Cup?
A: South Africa finished in sixth place at the 2023 Netball World Cup, which was hosted in Cape Town.
Q: What comparison did Msomi make between the Springboks (South Africa’s male rugby team) and the netball team?
A: Msomi pointed out that the Springboks receive significantly more support compared to the netball team, which she believes is a key factor in their success.
Q: Why did Msomi emphasize the need for sponsors to get involved with the netball team?
A: Msomi believes that corporate support is crucial for the development of netball in South Africa, as it can help bridge the gap with nations like Australia, which have professional leagues.
Q: What challenges did Msomi identify in South African netball, particularly regarding preparation for international competitions?
A: Msomi highlighted the limited time available for preparation and the frequent changes in the team’s composition due to player retirements and injuries as challenges faced by South African netball.
Q: What does Bongi Msomi plan to do after her retirement from netball?
A: After retiring from netball, Msomi plans to dedicate more time to initiatives aimed at developing sports, acting as an ambassador for projects involving communities in netball and other sports, and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Q: How does Msomi’s affiliation with Roc Nation Sports tie into her post-retirement plans?
A: Msomi, managed by Roc Nation Sports, aims to use her prominent status to inspire and support the next generation of athletes and sports development projects in South Africa.
More about Netball Disparity
- 2023 Netball World Cup Results
- South Africa’s Rugby World Cup Victory
- Super Netball League in Australia
- Bongi Msomi’s Affiliation with Roc Nation Sports
