In her debut Telkom Netball League season, Western Cape Tornados shooter Rehana Noah made an unforgettable mark — walking away with the Best Shooter title in Division 2. Standing tall at 183 cm, Rehana’s rise is a story of resilience, determination, and proving that heart and hard work can outshine conventional pathways. We caught up with her to reflect on a breakthrough season, her proudest moments, and the advice she has for young netballers chasing their dreams.
Birthday & Year: 30 October 2002
Height: 183 cm
Position: GS
Favourite thing to do at the moment: Sleep
What’s on your playlist right now: Jazzworx, on repeat since TNL
Role model: My mum
A quote you live by: “Dance like no one is watching!”
1. What does it mean to you to be named one of the best players of TNL 2025?
It honestly means everything to me. Being named Best Shooter in my debut season feels surreal. It’s not just a personal achievement; it’s a symbol of breaking barriers. I came into TNL with no traditional high-performance background, no USSA or Varsity Cup experience, and yet I stood shoulder to shoulder with some of the most experienced athletes and held my own. It reminds me that where you start doesn’t define where you can go — your heart, work ethic, and belief do.
2. Which moment from this season stands out as your most memorable?
Winning my first Player of the Match accolade was an indescribable feeling, one I’ll never forget. It happened during the first leg of TNL against the Kingdom Queens, and what made it so special was that I genuinely didn’t realise my performance had stood out that much. I was just focused on doing my job, so to be recognised in that way so early in the tournament was both surprising and incredibly affirming.
3. How did you stay motivated and consistent throughout the season?
I kept reminding myself why I started. My journey wasn’t conventional, so every game felt like an opportunity to prove that I belonged. The continuous support from my family, friends, and teammates allowed me to stay not only disciplined but also motivated to finish the season on a high.
4. What has this season taught you — on and off the court?
It taught me that when your intentions are clear and your work backs it up, nothing can stand in the way of what you want to achieve. On court, I learned the value of resilience and trust — in my teammates and myself. Off court, I discovered how capable I am, balancing netball while completing my master’s thesis in Physiological Sciences — something that pushed me beyond limits I didn’t know I could cross.
5. Who or what inspired your performance this year?
My family has inspired me the most. They’ve stood by me, believed in me, and kept me grounded, even when I didn’t believe in myself. Also, having my sister, Zahrah Noah, officially announced in the SPAR Baby Proteas Netball World Youth Cup squad… what more inspiration do you need? I must add that my coach, Lucy Twani, has been the first person to truly believe in my abilities. She trusted me to deliver, which gave me the confidence to play freely and give my best every time I stepped on court.
6. What advice would you give to young netballers hoping to follow in your footsteps?
Don’t let where you come from limit where you’re going. Hard work, consistency, and heart will always speak louder. Back yourself — always.
7. What was the most challenging part of the season for you, and how did you overcome it?
There were times I felt overwhelmed, both physically and mentally, especially when inexperience played a role. Feeling the pressure of the crowd and the intensity of the game at this level was challenging. I learned to stay composed, lean on my support system, and give myself grace. Resting the mind became just as important as resting the body.
8. How important was teamwork in your success this season?
Netball is a team sport at its core, and as a shooter, I rely heavily on my middies and defenders. One game I’ll never forget is our semi-final against the Sunbirds. We were behind the whole game, but in that final quarter, the way we pulled together, communicated, and trusted each other to turn it around and win… that was pure team synergy.
9. If you could give one piece of advice to yourself at the start of the season, what would it be?
Trust yourself more. If you want to take the shot, take it. If you see the intercept, go for it. No one is stopping you but yourself. You’ve done the work, now go out there and show the world who you are.
10. What’s next for you after TNL 2025?
I want to continue growing in the sport and take each opportunity as it comes. I also want to finish my master’s strong and eventually work in a space that allows great success in my scientific research career. For now, I’m enjoying the journey, staying grounded, and preparing for whatever comes next.
