The 2024 SPAR Challenge sees the revival of a long-standing rivalry between the powerhouses of African netball when the Spar Proteas take on the Malawi Queens in a three-test series at Ellis Park Arena in the City of Johannesburg from October 31 to November 3.
South Africa and Malawi are currently ranked fifth and sixth in the world. The rivalry between the two teams is intense as each team strives to be crowned Africa’s No 1. Malawi proved for years to be South Africa’s nemesis, but the Proteas first gained dominance in 2011, when they beat Malawi at the Netball World Cup in Singapore.
The two countries have played each other 38 times with South Africa leading Malawi 25-12 with 1 test match being drawn. The two teams last met in a three-match series at Sun City in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic. South Africa won the series 3-0.
Spar National PR, Communications and Sponsorships Manager Mpudi Maubane said in the realm of sports sponsorship and community engagements, few companies exemplify commitment to women’s empowerment as intensely as Spar.
"Our commitment stretches beyond financial contributions, it embodies a holistic approach to female sports empowerment. By aligning our brand with netball, a sport often associated with female participation, we are not merely promoting a game but also fostering a culture that champions women," said Maubane.
"Women in many societies still encounter barriers that inhibit their participation in sports, be it cultural norms, economic disadvantages, or lack of representation. By investing in initiatives like the Spar Challenge, we aim to address these obstacles head-on, opening doors for women athletes and providing platforms for them to showcase their abilities.
"Twenty-five years later, we are still committed to uplift, empower, and develop women both on and off the field. We do so, not only as an act of corporate goodwill but as a necessary step towards achieving equality and creating a world where women can thrive.
“Spar will continue to promote and support women in sport, standing by our commitment to empower, uplift and develop women both on and off the field.
"This initiative, a celebration of every victory big or small reminds us that supporting women in sports is not just a sponsorship but it is investing in the future ,” added Maubane.
Cecila Molokwane, Netball South Africa President said: “As I always say, Spar is good for netball.
"We recognise and appreciate the contribution that our partner, Spar, has made to netball over the last three decades. Their continued support allows the Spar Proteas to develop and showcase their skills against the world's best, like Malawi.
"This Challenge Series is a clear demonstration of Spar’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusivity. We are looking forward to welcoming the Malawi Queens to our shores, respect their play and world ranking and look forward to a terrific test series.”
The Spar Challenge will be hosted by the City of Johannesburg and City Executive Director for Community Development Siyanda Mnukwa said: "The City of Johannesburg looks forward to hosting the 2024 Spar Challenge at Ellis Park Arena.
"This is part of bringing vibrancy back to the inner city and reaffirming Johannesburg's status as a premier sports precinct in Africa. The inner city is alive with energy and possibility, and we are committed to making it a hub of sporting excellence, not just for South Africa, but for the entire continent".
Tickets are available from shop.netball-sa.org.za from midday on Friday, 4 October. Adults will pay R100 and children R30.