PUMA caught up with SPAR Proteas player Shadine van der Merwe in a Q&A to talk all things netball ahead of the Vitality Netball World Cup in Cape Town next month.

How do you stay focused, with the World Cup dangling in the near future?

I have learned it’s always important to stay in the now, and to be the best version of yourself in the moment. Also to be kind to yourself because we all feel vulnerable sometimes.

Why is it special to play a World Cup at home?

It’s always an absolute honour to represent my country anywhere! But what makes this so special is being able to represent my family and friends and to be proud of what I have achieved.

What are the strengths of this Spar Proteas netball team?

Our unity! We come from various backgrounds and cultures, and we have so much respect for each other! On court we know how to fight till the end.

You got to play in the Super League in Britain. Why should South African players consider this option? You get to experience netball as a career and playing abroad provides international experience. You learn a lot and get to play and train with some of the best netballers.

What do you love about your position?

All players contribute no matter their position, but being a defender is about applying pressure to build momentum and change the game. I love bringing that energy.

Which part of your game has improved the most over the past year?

My attacking game! Learning to be smarter with the ball during the execution from defending to attack.

Your thoughts on the Spar Proteas playing kit designed by PUMA?

I love it! The kit is colourful and shows both diversity and unity. It suits my personality.

What attracted you to partner with PUMA?

The brand itself, and also as an outsider I could see that how they treat their ambassadors is beautiful.

Your advice to girls who feel there are barriers to their dreams?

Sometimes it can be scary but don’t be afraid to take some risks! There will be disappointments, but without them I would not have been able to grow both as a player and a person.

What motivates you to put in the hours of hard work?

To become a better version of myself, and knowing that hard work always beats talent!

Almost 100% of your Instagram posts feature bright smiles? I love what I do. If it’s playing, training, or coaching I always have that little girl dream butterfly in me.

Tell us about your VW Kombi?

It’s the first car I bought for myself and I have always loved a kombi, because as kids we grew up having a kombi. His name is “Ertjie” (little pea) because of the colour.

Golf – what attracts you to such an infuriating hobby? I love playing golf with friends. Even though it can frustrate you, when I play golf I completely switch off and just focus on the next shot … or on where to start looking for my ball!