PUMA caught up with SPAR Proteas Refiloe Nketsa 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 go through my succession plan and track my progress to perform to the best of my abilities.
Why is it special to play a World Cup at home?
It is the first ever Netball World Cup to be hosted on African soil and having home ground advantage is honestly an honour. We will get to share our journeys with so many people on a world-wide stage and how lucky can one be than doing that at home.
What makes the Spar Proteas team so strong?
The diversity and cultural differences we have in the team, and the fact that we take pride in our unity.
What will be the keys to World Cup success?
Trusting in each other and our preparation.
Your biggest achievement?
Making the World Cup squad of 15. It serves as proof that all the hard work I have been putting in is recognised by my coaches, who see me as deserving of representing my country on such a huge stage.
What do you love about your position? The opportunity to think a bit more under pressure and to outsmart and outplay my opponent.
Which parts of your game have improved the most over the past year?
My attacking skills: how I plan my attacking play against strong opposition.
Your thoughts on the Spar Proteas playing kit designed by PUMA?
It is so beautiful and unique. I love the diversity and detail that went into designing what we as South Africans portray to the world.
What attracted you to partner with PUMA?
The comfort offered on and off the court, especially the sneakers as I am a sneaker freak! Also, the casual style with a sporty tweak is what has my heart.
You play in the PUMA Solarstrike Footwear, why do they work for you?
The comfort when running and changing direction on court. The Solarstrike is super spacious and allows my feet to breath and move with no discomfort.
Your advice to girls who feel there are barriers to their dreams?
Once you put your mind to something, be sure to break it down and the focus on achieving small pieces as that will eventually lead to realising the big part of your dream. Great things take time. Embrace your journey and welcome growth.
What keeps you hungry for success?
The pride one feels after achieving something. But the true motivation lies in the number of hearts we touch doing what we were destined to do.
What are you studying at Free State University?
I am studying towards a Bachelor of Social Sciences. After my playing days I aim to work in the sports psychology field, with a focus on the player’s well-being and catering to the athlete’s needs before they perform their duties to their club, provincial or national team.
Who has guided your netball career?
I got introduced to sports at a young age and my mother has been my inspiration. The likes of Erin Burger, Phumza Maweni and Karla Pretorius were big names I looked up to. My coaches in primary and high school paved the way for me to have a glimpse of what kind of career lay ahead. Now I find myself being mentored by the best coaches in history, Burta de Kock and Norma Plummer.
