Eleven student-athletes and club members from the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Netball Club have yet again demonstrated their exceptional talent, securing top finishes in the 2025 Telkom Netball League. Their outstanding performances were highlighted in their teams claiming top spots with the Gauteng Golden Fireballs and the Jaguars teams.
These podium finishes come just at the end of the recent University Sport South Africa (USSA) championship titles for the UJ senior men’s and women’s teams in Gqeberha.
Podium finishes for UJ affiliates:
The league, which concluded on Sunday, 20 July 2025, saw seven current UJ students and four UJ Netball Club members contribute significantly to three teams achieving podium finishes.
Eight of these talented players were part of the Gauteng Golden Fireballs Team, while two represented the Jaguars and one the Kingdom Queens.
Gauteng Golden Fireballs claim title in unbeaten race:
The Gauteng Golden Fireballs Team emerged as champions, completing the tournament undefeated. This powerhouse team included the following UJ student-athletes and club members:
- Nontsikelelo Mazibuko
- Cornelia Mupenda
- Nomfundo Mngomezulu (club member)
- Owethu Ngubane
- Tarle Mathe
- Sanelisiwe Ntobela (club member)
- Alexandra Meimaris
- Boitumelo Mahlako
Jaguars secure bronze, Kingdom Queens represented:
Suné Barnard and Neo Mosweu proudly represented the Jaguars Team, earning a bronze medal with their 3rd place finish. Although they didn’t reach the podium, Sli Ngcobo admirably represented the Kingdom Queens.
Acknowledging their contributions:
“We’re proud of each and every one of these players for representing their teams with pride,” said Ms. Bongiwe Msomi, UJ Netball Club Head Coach and Manager. “We are equally proud of our current student players and the UJ Netball Club members for their immense contributions to these teams. Congratulations to them for their wins and outstanding performances.”
Individual accolades and recognition:
Two UJ players also received individual awards for their exceptional skills in Division 1:
- Owethu Ngubane (Fireballs) was named the Best Shooter.
- Tarle Mathe (Fireballs) was crowned Player of the Tournament.
Other notable individual awards in Division 1 included the Craniums’ Refiloe Nketsa winning the Best Mid Court award and Jaguars’ Jamie van Wyk walking away with the Best Defender award. Each of these top performers received a R5,000.00 cash prize for their achievements.
The Telkom Netball League showcases the best of South African netball, featuring 16 top teams from across the nation’s nine provinces.
For daily updates, follow UJ Sport on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
