Kwa-Thema – At just 15, Nhlakanipho Nkosi is already making waves as a promising netball player. His interest in the sport began at age 11, when his aunt took him along to one of her games.
“I watched from the sidelines and was inspired. I saw an opportunity for myself because netball keeps players occupied and out of trouble,” Nkosi said.
“I noticed that players spend a lot of time practicing, which helps one focus and avoid overthinking.”
Nkosi shared that he has always received support and encouragement from his coach, teammates, and family, and has never faced judgement or criticism.
Nhlakanipho Nkosi aspires to play netball professionally. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
He aspires to play netball professionally, drawing inspiration from his coach.
“She believes in me, and as a result, I now believe in myself. She emphasises the importance of discipline, which has guided me throughout my journey,” he added.
Apart from his coach, Nkosi looks up to Calvin Mahlangu, a netball player in Ekurhuleni, admiring Mahlangu’s defensive skills and ability to elevate the game. Nkosi currently plays for the Kwa-Thema Netball Academy.
Coach Lebo Banagani described Nkosi as a dedicated and well-mannered player.
ALSO READ: Joy and achievement mark Smart Kids Aftercare’s annual awards ceremony in Kwa-Thema
“He comes from a well-grounded background and has a passion for everything he sets out to do. He knows how to balance schoolwork with his love for netball,” she said.
The academy trains three times a week, and Nkosi attends every session to excel in the sport.
“Nkosi is ready to represent us in the Ekurhuleni Netball League as an U19 player. Once he turns 16, he will be eligible to play at district level.
“His basics are strong, and his skills are well developed. I would love to see him become a professional player one day, as males in netball are still not fully recognised,” Banagani concluded.
Nhlakanipho Nkosi started playing netball at the age of 11. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!