PUMA caught up with SPAR Proteas player Bongi Msomi in a Q&A to talk all things netball ahead of the Vitality Netball World Cup in Cape Town.

What are the strengths of this Spar Proteas netball team?

God. Unity. Diversity. Hard work. Commitment. Passion. The Team moves as one! This is very important to us!

How do you stay focused on the now when the World Cup is so close?

Focusing on the now and on our preparation is easier when there’s a purpose! The World Cup only takes place every four years and not many players get the opportunity. So, it is a massive honour to be named among those who will experience such a vibe here at home, in South Africa!

What are the keys to World Cup success?

Never underestimate any team. Focus on our game plan. Play every game like it’s a final. Trust the coaches and the process. Discipline and Grit as it will be tough! Absorb the pressure, stay united and keep grinding as a group both on and off the court.

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

The atmosphere of the home ground advantage. The whole country being united, speaking the language of NETBALL! Super cool! It is also an opportunity for all the sponsors and partners to see and understand why they need to support netball. Also, having your family, friends and loved ones supporting you live, is super special.

What are your proudest achievements?

I focus on being the best I can be as an athlete and consider results a bonus. But winning is super cool! It’s great when your hard work results in great individual and team wins. It an unshakable confidence boost and creates great memories. Some of my favourite winning feelings are winning the Netball Super League with Surrey Storm in 2015 and with Wasps Netball in 2017. Beating England in the Quad Series in 2019 and Jamaica in the 2019 NWC. Also winning the Africa Netball Cup in 2021, the Telkom Netball League with the Gauteng Golden Fireballs in 2022 and the Spar Diamond Challenge in 2022.

You played in the Super League in Britain. Why should South African players consider this option?

The competition is intense as you play against stars from around the world. The clubs have professional high-performance set-ups. There are educational experiences on and off the court, so you will gain confidence and mental toughness. The experience also encourages you to become responsible and independent off the court.

What do you love about your position?

It’s an ‘I’m here if you need help’ position and I believe I’m very much like that in life as well. Ha! Ha! Ha! You have to be a hard worker to play my position, so the fitness training and testing expectations are higher for midcourt players. No short cuts! It also links both ends equally! Completes the pack.

How have you improved over the past year?

Defence! I have become more of a defensive attacking player, and I enjoy it.

Your thoughts on the Spar Proteas playing kit designed by PUMA? Brilliant! Super Special! The blend of colours and the story behind the design makes you want to wear such a meaningful dress when you go into battle at a World Cup.

What attracted you to partner with the brand?

PUMA approached me and the working relationship has been great since day one. I never had this type of support before, and I fell in love with the brand. They have opened doors for me in terms of sponsorships and ambassadorships. PUMA also supports the Bongi Msomi Legacy Project, affording me and my team an opportunity to reach out to many superstars through different initiatives.

You play in the PUMA Solarstrike Footwear, why do they work for you?

They are light but offers good stability and support which is perfect for all the jumping, sprints and changes of direction in netball.
Favourite sneakers? PUMA Cruise Rider. So comfortable! Also, the PUMA Mayze sneakers are super cool. I am a bit short, so I don’t mind that extra heel when dressing casually in my free time! I even use these sneakers for formal wear.

How are you able to be a positive role model for girls and young women?

The Bongi Msomi Legacy Project allows me to express my true self in terms of my passion for netball but also in sharing life and leadership skills which I incorporate in my coaching clinics. I get to educate and empower, which will hopefully produce positive change. Similarly, my roles as a netball manager and as a coach at the University of Johannesburg allow me to assist athletes on and off the court. I get to understand the students’ backgrounds, their goals and struggles. This ensures our management team can prepare and train them holistically.

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

No barrier can block your dream except you. As soon as you’ve identified your dream, work hard to achieve it. Yes, it will be tough. That’s absolutely fine. It’s normal. Accept the challenge and make it a priority to make yourself proud. It feels so good to tick boxes, especially when it is against all odds. Don’t miss out. Go get your prize!

Where do you draw strength?

Faith in God and in trusting the hard work I put in. You can never go wrong with that!

What keeps you hungry for success?

Knowing how far I’ve come and witnessing the success of others. Also, the growth and opportunities that come from my winning in all different ways. It’s the best feeling ever!