Netball South Africa (NSA) has confirmed the expansion of the Telkom Netball League (TNL) after the addition of an additional team, Tshukudu, as the tournament continues to grow from strength-to-strength.
The tournament will now include 16 teams when it makes its highly-anticipated return to the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg on April 26.
All matches will take place at the same venue with the final set to be contested on June 2.
The tournament is a pathway for budding players to gain selection to the national team or even land lucrative overseas contracts.
The tournament was first launched in 2014 with 10 teams competing over two divisions with a total of 15 sides competing in 2023.
Tshukudu, from the North West province, joins a tournament that has been dominated by teams from Gauteng and the Free State since its inception.
Reigning champions Gauteng Jaguars have won the most titles with six, followed by the Free State Crinums with three titles, while Gauteng Golden Fireballs have won it once in 2022.
#TNLisBack The official Telkom Netball League 2024. The teams will take court in their brand new colours/ kit. The competition will feature a new team from the North-West, Tshukudu 🏆📸
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) April 11, 2024
The launch brought about sheer joy and anticipation 🙂
| #TelkomNL | #TNLisBack pic.twitter.com/id2JlHXSKt
The three sides will again be expected to be the front runners for the top honours this year.
NSA president Cecilia Molokwane said the expansion of the tournament signifies a milestone in the journey to elevate the sport in the country.
“With the inclusion of Tshukudu, we are not only expanding the reach of the league but also providing more opportunities for aspiring athletes to compete at the highest level,” Molokwane said.
“This is a testament to the growing popularity and competitiveness of netball in our country, and we are excited to witness the talent and passion on display in the 2024 season.”
Tshukudu will be the second team from the North West as another side from the province, North West Flames, has formed part of the tournament since its inception.
The other teams in the competition are Southern Stings, Limpopo Baobabs, Limpopo Lillies, Northern Cape Diamonds, Eastern Aloes, Comets, Sunbirds, Tornadoes, KZN Queens, KZN Kingdom Stars and Sonoblomo from the Free State.
“The Telkom Netball League stands as a testament to Telkom’s unwavering dedication to fostering the growth of netball, echoing the sentiments of the #StandTall campaign initiated during the 2023 Netball World Cup,” said Gugu Mthembu who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Telkom.
“Our investment in sports development and netball sponsorships underscores our commitment to empowering women in sports and nurturing the next generation of netball superstars.
“Through the Telkom Netball League, we provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and inspire the nation with their passion and determination.”
Netball South Africa in partnership with City of Joburg held a signing ceremony to confirm City of Joburg as the official hosts of The Telkom Netball League 2024 📸#netballsouthafrica | #TNL | #CityOfJoburg pic.twitter.com/W2l6g4lluB
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) April 9, 2024
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