Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Yanga Sibembe
Published on 2024-02-29 11:17:49
“We rise by lifting others.” This powerful mantra is at the core of Jenny van Dyk’s coaching philosophy as she takes on the role of head coach for the Proteas women’s netball team. With a passion for gardening and a strong belief in teamwork, van Dyk is determined to lead South Africa to their first podium finish at the Netball World Cup in nearly three decades.
Since their silver medal finish in 1995, South Africa has struggled to reclaim their spot on the podium, often settling for fifth place in the tournament. The team’s best performance since then was a fourth-place finish in 2019 under the guidance of Australian coach Norma Plummer. However, a disappointing sixth-place finish in 2023, when South Africa hosted the World Cup, highlighted the need for a new approach and fresh leadership.
Van Dyk brings a sense of idealism and ambition to the role, expressing her dream of winning a World Cup for her country. Despite the dominance of teams like Australia and New Zealand in the tournament, van Dyk is determined to lead her team to gold. She acknowledges the challenges ahead but is committed to doing everything in her power to achieve success.
Netball South Africa’s president, Cecilia Molokwane, highlighted the qualities of a coach that the organization was seeking, emphasizing the importance of credibility, leadership, and a winning mindset. Van Dyk’s track record with the Gauteng Jaguars, where she secured five consecutive championships in the Telkom Netball League, demonstrates her ability to lead a team to success.
Van Dyk credits much of her coaching success to the guidance she received from former Proteas coach Norma Plummer. Simple yet impactful advice from Plummer helped van Dyk turn her team’s fortunes around and secure multiple championships. Drawing on her experience working with Plummer and observing her coaching style, van Dyk is well-prepared to take on the challenge of leading the Proteas to World Cup glory.
Although van Dyk missed the opportunity to interview for the Proteas head coach position in 2019, she believes that everything happens for a reason and that now is the right time for her to take on the role. With the recent retirements of veteran players Bongiwe Msomi and Phumza Maweni, van Dyk will have the opportunity to usher in a new generation of talent and shape the future of South African netball.
As the Proteas gear up for their next shot at World Cup glory, van Dyk’s mantra of “We rise by lifting others” will guide her coaching philosophy and inspire her team to reach new heights. With determination, teamwork, and a shared vision of success, van Dyk is poised to lead South Africa on their journey towards a podium finish at the Netball World Cup.
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