Global sports company PUMA today presented Bongi Msomi with personalised footwear to celebrate her captaining the Spar Proteas as they compete for glory in the Netball World Cup in Cape Town.

Bongi plays in PUMA Solarstrike II netball trainers, and PUMA have created a personalised version of these netball shoes in national team colours and featuring the South African flag as well as her nickname BOH.

“I love these shoes and am excited to play in them. The Solarstrike II is both light and provides stability. So, they’re great for changing direction at speed,” Bongi explained. “Wearing these unique shoes will boost my confidence and definitely make a statement.”

Brett Bellinger, PUMA SA Marketing Director, described Bongi as a phenomenon on and off the court. “PUMA is delighted to be able to celebrate our outstanding captain with these personalised Solarstrike II netball shoes created in her honour,” he said.

Talking about her partnership with PUMA, Bongi said she has fallen in love with the brand. “I have never had this type of support. PUMA opened doors for me when it comes to personal sponsorship and ambassadorship. They also support my Bongi Msomi Legacy Project which ensures the Hammarsdale Sunbeams – my netball club back home – is supported, and they provide financial support for every child (boy or girl) who is part of the club, so that they do not miss out on the opportunities that were given to me.”

She is excited to represent South Africa in the World Cup at home: “It will mean more than all the other three World Cups I’ve participated in. It is already history making for netball in our country and in Africa. Not many get such opportunities. I am blessed and will forever be grateful.”

PUMA South Africa is the official kit supplier for all teams under the auspices of Netball South Africa and in March 2023 unveiled the United Warriors kit worn by the SPAR Proteas during the 2023 season. PUMA also produces the official netball SA replica and fanwear.

The replica Home and Away kit are available at PUMA.com, at PUMA Retail, Totalsports and Sportmans Warehouse. Retail price R499. PUMA has also unveiled a range of fanwear across men’s, women’s and kids’ sizes.