Netball vet helps talent score

CHATSWORTH has the potential to produce South Africa’s next big netball star.

Veteran administrator Mala Moonsamy believes it is only a matter of time before a talented youngster from the Chatsworth Netball Union (CNU) is discovered.

Moonsamy knows a thing or two about developing talent – her involvement in the sport in various roles spans over three decades.

The 49-year-old scooped the Manager of the Year gong at the

KZN Netball Awards recently, for the second time in a space of three years.

After all her years in the game however, Moonsamy described the 2018 season as her most memorable.

In May, she was appointed manager of the Kingdom Stars, a

KZN franchise team that competes in the national Brutal Fruit Netball League.

“I am very happy about winning the award, this is what I love doing. The title is just a bonus,” Moonsamy said.

The hard-working Moonsamy, one of KZN’S leading administrators, has managed the province’s senior team for the past four years.

“Being involved in the Brutal

Fruit League was an awesome experience,” said Moosamy of the competition that was hosted in Pretoria over a period of six weekends.

“Netball South Africa have brought professionalism to the sport and, as a manager, its a great place to learn and develop,” Moonsamy said.

The mother of three said her maternal instinct kicked in when she was on tour, and that added an important dynamic to her role.

“All my years in administration helped me make the jump this year.

“On the road, I have to make sure that our players’ needs are taken care off.

“They have to be comfortable and happy so they can perform at their best,” Moonsamy explained.

Her exposure to South Africa’s elite league has inspired her to continue her coaching role at her club, Woodhurst Sporting, which she co-founded in the 1980s.

“I currently coach juniors, that is where my passion lies. That is where I believe I can make a difference,” Moonsamy said.

She continued: “I understand what it takes to play at the highest level and I believe our girls can achieve the same.”

The CNU is one of the most vibrant leagues in the province – the perfect platform for players to hone their skills and get noticed.

“Playing at the highest level requires a lot of commitment. Our players have the ability and the potential.

“There are massive opportunities available to them now, they have to work hard and believe in themselves,” Moonsamy said.