In an inspiring show of talent, dedication, and the power of inclusive sports development, Rhodes University has once again proven that it is a force to be reckoned with, this time on the netball courts. On the 29th of March 2025, the first round of the Sarah Baartman District Netball Trials saw players dominate the courts, with 17 students selected across five different divisions: Under 19 Females, Under 21 Females, Senior Females, Under 23 Males, and Senior Males.
Fast forward to the final round of trials, which took place on the 1st of May 2025, and 14 out of the 17 Rhodes University players made the final team. These students will go on to represent not just the institution but the entire Sarah Baartman District at the Netball National Championships set to take place in August 2025.
Rhodes University's contribution to the district team is a source of pride for the institution, the selected students, and the wider Eastern Cape sporting community. Rhodes Sport has long championed student development and inclusivity in its sporting codes, and this year's netball trials are a testament to the fruits of that commitment.
Trailblazers in Inclusivity
One of the most noteworthy aspects of this year’s selection is the strong representation of male athletes. With the official recognition of male netball by Netball South Africa in recent years, Rhodes University has been at the forefront of embracing this shift. The Rhodes Male Netball Club, founded in 2021, has grown rapidly in numbers and competitiveness. This year's district trial results reflect that progress: most players who made the final cut are men, an unprecedented achievement in a sport historically dominated by women.
“The massive increase in numbers is a result of the club's commitment to improve the results of the past couple of years,” said Mr. Xolisa Kula, Rhodes University’s netball sports officer. “The coaches are committed, and the players respond positively by putting in the hard work even in their own time. We have also seen a huge increase in player retention, with everyone competing for places. Rhodes Sports is committed to giving all we can to ensure the club improves,” he concluded.
This inclusive approach is central to Rhodes Sports in creating opportunities for all, regardless of gender, background, or experience level. Netball at Rhodes University has become more than just a sport; it’s a platform for personal growth, teamwork, and breaking down long-standing gender stereotypes.
National Team: Rhodes University’s Final 13
The final 13 players selected for the Sarah Baartman District team include a mix of first-year and senior students, underscoring the depth of talent and mentorship within Rhodes' sports system.
(a) Under-21 Females:
Nombuso Nkosi (2nd year - Bachelor of Social Science)
Nizime Fifi Mambinja (2nd year - Bachelor of Arts)
(b) Senior Females:
Sinehlombe Magqza (4th year - Bachelor of Arts)
Lebogang Mothapo (PhD candidate)
(c) Under-23 Males:
Martin Kgarimetsa (4th year - Bachelor of Social Science honours)
Bright Mkhavele (1st year - Bachelor of Arts)
Myolisi Lawana (2nd year - Bachelor of Social Science)
Ayakha Mxathule (3rd year - Bachelor of Social Science)
Simamkele Pipe (1st year - Bachelor of Arts)
Anathi Mqaqeni (2nd year - BCom Finance)
Sean Berndt (2nd year - BCom Finance)
Asive Silo (2nd year - Bachelor of Arts)
(d)Senior Males’ division:
Siya Hlebani (4th year - Bachelor of Journalism with Honours)
These student-athletes embody the spirit of Rhodes University: talented, hardworking, and driven to succeed. Many juggle demanding academic commitments while excelling on the court, a true reflection of the University’s culture of excellence in all spheres of student life.
Beyond the Court
The success of Rhodes University netball extends far beyond silverware and national selection. It’s a story of community, mentorship, and opportunity. The netball programme has become a space where students find identity, confidence, and lifelong friendships. As the national championships approach, the University community rallies behind these 13 champions to celebrate their achievement and recognise what it represents: a thriving, inclusive sports culture that opens doors and sets new standards.
Rhodes University and its Sports Department have shown that anything is possible with the right support systems, diverse representation, and a commitment to student growth. As the purple army gears up to represent Sarah Baartman District on the national stage, one thing is clear—Rhodes University is not just playing the game; it is changing it.