Khanyisa Chawane has been appointed as the new captain of the SPAR Proteas, Netball South Africa revealed on Wednesday.
Karla Pretorius has been named as the assistant captain.
Chawane takes over the leadership role from Bongi Msomi, who has led the team with distinction since 2016.
And here she is....
— Tiisetso Malepa (@TiisetsoMalepa) August 14, 2024
Our new #SPARPROTEAS netball women's national team has a new captain....
Her name is KHANYISA CHAWANE.#WEAREALLIN#NETBALLSOUTHAFRICA #CityPress pic.twitter.com/fnR52di5W9
Msomi led the team during the 2019 and 2023 Netball World Cups in Liverpool and Cape Town, respectively.
Msomi retired as the most-capped player in the history of the team.
KC as she is affectionately known, is a seasoned player, bringing a wealth of experience and skills to her new role.
She has been an integral part of the SPAR Proteas team since 2018.
She has proudly represented South Africa in various prestigious international tournaments, showcasing her exceptional talent and leadership on the global stage.
"I am truly humbled and honoured to be appointed captain of the Spar Proteas. It's a privilege to lead such a talented and dedicated group of players. I'm excited to take on this new challenge and work with the coaches and teammates to achieve our goals. I'm committed to leading by example, with passion, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I'm looking forward to this new chapter and making South Africa proud,” said Chawane.
[WATCH] 🇿🇦🏐 New SPAR Proteas captain Khanyisa Chawane says all of the tough times that she's gone through in her personal life and in sport have prepared her to lead her country.
— Ntsako Mkhari (@Ntsako_Mkhari_) August 14, 2024
"When I was 14 my mother passed away and you lose focus and you don't know how to move forward" pic.twitter.com/e0FwvcnM94
Chawane’s appointment is a testament to her skills, work ethic and dedication to netball.
“Congratulations to Khanyisa on this well-deserved appointment. Her remarkable leadership attributes, exceptional playing abilities, and dedication make her an impeccable choice for this vital role,” said Cecilia Molokwane, President of Netball South Africa.
Molokwane expressed her confidence in women's capability to get the job done and announced, "I always say, 'When you want a job done, send a woman and it shall be done!' And so, on behalf of the Netball family and NSA, the organisation that I have the honour to lead, I am sending you to captain this team. You embody the leadership, skill, and determination that will inspire your teammates and make our country proud.”
The SPAR Proteas will assemble for camp on 14 August , as they prepare for the season ahead.
Chawane will lead her teammates in their upcoming international matches and tournaments, this includes the highly anticipated 2024 SPAR Challenge, slated to be held at the historic Ellis Park Arena in October.