PHALABORWA — Majeje High School has secured a national title after its under‑16 netball team was crowned champions at the South African Schools Netball (SASN) Secondary Schools Championships held in Boksburg from 30 July to 1 August, completing an unbeaten run of eight victories.
Unbeaten campaign in Gauteng
The championships were staged at Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen and drew top school teams from across the country. According to coach Ruth Mkhatshwa, the Limpopo side won all eight matches they played across pool and knockout stages to lift the national trophy.
“I am super excited that we made it and represented our province and school very well. I was a little nervous because the competition was tough, but I had confidence in my girls. We played eight matches and won every one of them,” said coach Ruth Mkhatshwa.
Majeje qualified two teams for the nationals — the u/16 and u/17 squads. While the u/16 team captured the title, the u/17 side was eliminated in the top‑16 playoffs but recovered to finish ninth overall, retaining its position as Limpopo’s second‑ranked u/17 team, the school reported.
Months of preparation and provincial dominance
The success follows months of focused preparation and strong provincial form. Majeje entered four age groups — u/14, u/15, u/16 and u/17 — and all four won their circuit competitions before advancing through cluster stages. The u/14 team finished fourth at district level and the u/15 side placed third at the Limpopo championships.
Coach Mkhatshwa said consistent performances and disciplined training were central to the national achievement. The principal, Nkhensani Duba, described the championship as an “inspiring” reward for the players’ dedication.
“I am extremely proud of our players and coach Mkhatshwa for this big achievement. They have worked tirelessly throughout the season, and seeing their dedication rewarded with a national title is truly inspiring,” said Principal Nkhensani Duba.
What this means for the school and local sport
The national victory places Majeje High School among a small group of Limpopo schools to claim top honours at SASN championships. For the community in Phalaborwa and surrounding villages, the title highlights the potential of school sport to open pathways for learners, boost school pride and attract support for coaching and facilities.
- U/16: National champions — unbeaten (8 wins)
- U/17: Finished ninth nationally
- U/15: Third at Limpopo championships
- U/14: Fourth at district level
Local sport administrators and school leaders often point to sustained grassroots structures and committed coaches as the backbone of provincial success. The multi‑team qualification this year suggests Majeje’s netball programme has depth across age groups, not just a single strong cohort.
| Team | Best result (2026 SASN) |
|---|---|
| U/16 | National champions (8 wins, unbeaten) |
| U/17 | Ninth place nationally |
| U/15 | Third at Limpopo championships |
| U/14 | Fourth at district level |
While the school’s achievement will be celebrated locally, sustaining success will depend on continued investment in coaching, access to training facilities and competitive fixtures. For young athletes in rural and semi‑urban areas of Limpopo, national exposure like this can be pivotal in developing sporting careers.
The national championships in Boksburg concluded on 1 August. Majeje returned to Phalaborwa with the trophy and recognition as the country’s top under‑16 school netball team for 2026.
(Reporting includes comments and results provided by Majeje High School.)
