Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has urged South Africans to rally behind the country’s national women’s teams during the biggest moment in the SA sporting calendar so far this year.
Kowda’s appeal comes as Banyana Banyana are participating in the FIFA World Cup in New Zealand and the Netball World Cup begins on July 28 in Cape Town.
“Although Banyana Banyana lost this closely-fought encounter against Sweden, their fighting spirit was clear for all to see. I return to South Africa emboldened by the support Banyana Banyana has, and I know that their will to do their best in the World Cup remains as strong as ever.
“We also enter a week in which South Africa hosts the much anticipated 2023 Netball World Cup. It is all systems go for the start of this extravaganza, as most of the teams that will compete in this World Cup have arrived in Cape Town,” he said.
Last week the City of Cape Town hoisted the flags of the participating nations on the Coen Steytler Roundabout outside the tournament venue to officially welcome competitors.
The SPAR Proteas entered the tournament as one of the leading teams and defending champions New Zealand have arrived in the country.
Other participating teams include Australia, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.
Kodwa is expected to participate in Netball World Cup activities that will take place in a number of communities including Gugulethu, Athlone and Happy Valley.
“I urge South Africans to rally around and to support these national teams which have consistently flown the country's flag high. Banyana Banyana and the SPAR Proteas have made the country proud with their performances, and have stood out with their world-class talents. These teams exemplify the unity and cohesion which spreads to all parts of the nation in South Africa's great sporting moments,” he said.
Cape Times