Amapoliza Gazi claims veterans’ netball victory

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – For the first time in the history of the Lesotho Netball Association, a three-day Over-40 Netball Tournament was hosted from March 28 to 30 at the Maseru club netball courts.

While the home team finished fourth, the tournament was ultimately won by Amapoliza Gazi from Gauteng.

The success of the tournament was underscored by strong representation from neighboring countries, with teams travelling from South Africa and Botswana to join the competition.

Lesotho’s participation in the tournament consisted of four teams, categorized as Maseru Legend 1 through to 4, fielding a total of thirty players; nine in Maseru Legend 1, twelve in Maseru Legend 2, ten in Maseru Legend 3, and nine more in Maseru Legend 4.

Botswana contributed two teams to the 36 team competition, leaving the remaining 30 slots filled by the numerous teams representing South Africa’s nine provinces.

Amapoliza Gazi from South Africa emerged victorious, claiming the tournament title.

Tswane secured second place, followed by Jozi Grooves in third.

Lesotho’s teams achieved a commendable fourth-place finish, with Sepiriti Majara earning the prestigious award for best player and Lerato Malefane recognized as the tournament’s best defender.

Malekanyane Qhalisi, PRO of the National Over 40’s Netball Tournament, declared the event a success, expressing satisfaction with the results despite falling short of their hoped for victory.

She acknowledged the impressive number of participating teams contributed to the overall positive outcome.

The event was further enhanced by the presence of the Minister of Sports, Motlatsi Maqelepo, who highlighted the rising importance of sports tourism in driving economic growth.

The tournament aimed to foster strong friendships, promote good health, and reaffirm the lasting passion for netball among individuals.

Futhermore, ‘Malitsietsi Zwakala, acting CEO of the Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission, speaking at the tournament’s launch, encouraged other national federations to adopt similar Over-40 competitions as a valuable tool for promoting recreational activities.

This year marks the sixth edition of the annual tournament, although it is held three times yearly. Lesotho previously participated in two tournaments.

The first experience was in Mpumalanga, with a smaller team of only eight players. Their second experience, in Kwazulu-Natal, sparked a greater interest in the tournament, leading to this year’s event.