Netball South Africa has noted the resurfacing of social media commentary relating to team selection within the SPAR Proteas setup. While the federation respects the right to freedom of expression, this right should never be exercised at the expense of another person’s dignity or wellbeing.
Recent social media posts have moved beyond constructive debate and have taken the form of personal attacks against the character of Head Coach Jenny van Dyk. This conduct is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by Netball South Africa.
While individuals are entitled to express opinions, harassment and personal attacks directed at players, coaches, or officials undermine the values of our sport. The continued harassment of our players and coaching staff by individuals masquerading as analysts is particularly concerning. Cyberbullying and defamation are serious offences under South African common law.
It is important to reiterate that team selection within the national setup is not the responsibility of a single individual. Selection decisions are made collectively, in consultation with the coaching team and an established selection panel.
Gender-based violence and harassment have no place in netball or in sport more broadly. The behaviour displayed by certain individuals on social media may amount to harassment and gender-based violence, and Netball South Africa remains committed to eradicating such conduct in all its forms.
Netball South Africa stands fully behind Jenny van Dyk as the Head Coach of the SPAR Proteas. She enjoys the full support of her players, the Executive Committee, and the Council of Netball South Africa.
“As the President of Netball South Africa, together with the Executive, we fully rally behind Coach Jenny van Dyk as the Head Coach of the SPAR Proteas. She continues to build a team that competes every time they are called upon to represent the country. Together with her management and coaching staff, they strive to serve South Africa with pride, dignity, and grace. As a netball family, we stand together, fight together, and win together,” said Netball South Africa President, Mami Diale.
The federation continues to engage with individuals responsible for these actions to understand their concerns and to advance the sport constructively. Netball South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of its players, coaches, umpires, and administrators.
