Behind the GK/GD bib is a whole person — shaped by community, family, loss, joy, and an unshakable belief that circumstances do not define destiny.
For Nozipho Ntshangase, wearing the green and gold of South Africa is more than a sporting honour — it is a promise fulfilled to a younger version of herself. A promise made in the quiet moments of a difficult childhood, in a small township called eNseleni near Richards Bay, where hope often had to be self-created.
Growing up with both her parents and siblings, home was not always a place of comfort for Nozipho. It was heavy, challenging, and at times overwhelming. School and the netball court became her safe spaces — the only places where she felt free.
“I was only happy when I was at school or in netball training because a lot was going on,” she reflects. “But I made a promise to myself as a young girl that one day I would be the one to change the situation at home and in the entire community.” Owethu Ngubane's story
That promise she made to herself would quietly fuel a journey that now sees her selected to represent South Africa in the SPAR Test Series against England at Ellis Park from 29 January to 1 February 2026.
Where it all began
Nozipho’s netball journey started in Grade 8 at high school. What began as participation in small tournaments soon turned into something deeper. The game gave her joy, belonging, and purpose — but most importantly, it introduced her to someone who would shape her future.
Her late coach, Sabelo Magenge, saw something special in her before the rest of the world did.
“He made me love the game,” she says. “He believed in me and shaped me very well.”
Under his guidance, Nozipho began to understand that netball was not just an escape — it could be a pathway.
Knocked down, but never out
Her talent earned her selection to Kingdom Stars, where she competed in the highly competitive Telkom Netball League. The exposure sharpened her game and tested her resilience. Then came the call every player dreams of: national trials.
In 2020, Nozipho was invited — but she didn’t make the final cut.
For many, that would have been the end of the road. For Nozipho, it became a turning point.
“I went back to the drawing board,” she says simply.
A year later, in 2021, the call came again. This time, she was ready. She made the team and debuted in the African Test Series against Namibia and Uganda, earning her first Proteas cap. It was a moment years in the making — and she didn’t stop there. During the tournament, she was named Player of the Match, a powerful statement that she belonged at this level.
Today, with five international caps to her name, the GK/GD continues to grow into her role, anchoring defence with calm, discipline, and heart. Tarle Mathe's journey
The sacrifices behind the scenes
Nozipho’s journey has not been walked alone — but it hasn’t been easy either. One of the biggest sacrifices came at home, where her mother initially struggled to accept how serious netball had become.
“She didn’t want a girl to be outside at night,” Nozipho explains.
Balancing cultural expectations, safety concerns, and a growing sporting career required patience, trust, and understanding. Over time, her dedication spoke louder than words.
A message to the girl watching from eNseleni
As she prepares to step onto court against England in front of home fans at Ellis Park, Nozipho knows that somewhere in eNseleni, a young girl is watching — perhaps facing similar challenges, perhaps wondering if dreams like this are realistic.
Her advice is shaped by lived experience — by setbacks, resilience, and quiet determination.Simple, but powerful:
“It’s possible. You can live your dream. Just be patient.”
Beyond the bib
On court, Nozipho Ntshangase is a fierce competitor. Off court, she carries surprises of her own. One thing fans might not expect?
“I can sing really well,” she revealed.
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