Netball World Cup 2023 has revealed Gilbert Netball as the Official Ball Supplier of the Netball World Cup Cape Town 2023 (NWC2023).
Cape Town South Africa will be hosting the NWC2023, bringing the tournament to the African continent for the first time in history.
Among the guests who revealed the Official Match Ball were the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr. Nathi Mthethwa, Netball SA President and World Netball Board Director, Ms. Cecilia Molokwane who said: “It was a dream that led us here and I am delighted that we have finally won the bid to host the Netball World Cup 2023.
“It is time for Africa, netball players, and every child who loves the sport to shine.
“We are definitely taking netball back to the people as we prepare for the upcoming tournament.”
Speaking on the excitement of the event, taking place in Cape Town from the 28th July to 6th August 2023, World Netball CEO Clare Briegal said: “With less than a year to go until the Netball World Cup 2023, it is fantastic to see the look and feel of the event begin to come to life through the launch of the match ball, created by World Netball’s Official Ball Supplier, Gilbert Netball.
“The Netball World Cup 2023 will showcase the beauty of South Africa to the Netball Family, and the sunset colours used on the ball capture the warmth of the welcome they will receive.
“I am excited by the #RoadToCapeTown campaign and seeing the branding come to life.”
Richard Gray CEO Commercial at Gilbert Netball commented “Everyone at Gilbert is excited to have been chosen as the Official Ball for Netball World Cup 2023, our 5th consecutive tournament.
“South Africa is one of our most important markets and we look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to help to maximise the impact of what is sure to be a landmark event in the netball calendar – the first time the Netball World Cup has been held in South Africa.
“Having been involved as official supplier to the 1995 Rugby World Cup we are confident that it will be a huge success for all concerned and will also be a major boost for the growth of netball in the region”.
Several netball activities were rolled out during the launch event to build excitement for the upcoming Netball World Cup Qualifier – Africa, in Pretoria and the NWC2023, including exhibition netball matches for various schools which were organised by the NWC2023 legacy programme team during the unveiling to inspire and motivate netballers.
“We are truly excited to welcome the world to South Africa. The preparations are well underway to ensure that all teams, spectators and fans around the world will experience a uniquely South African World Cup, said Tournament Director, Ms Priscilla Masisi.
In preparation for hosting this major sporting event for the first time in South Africa and Africa, much preparation has been done. The Official Match Ball unveiling was a success, ensuring the road to the NWC2023 continues to gain momentum.
“This Netball World Cup has a special significance, particularly at this moment when we are celebrating the positive role played by women in our society. Various continents will benefit from this tournament as it will offer opportunities to many women, teach them values, and enable them to dream big,” concludes Nathi Mthethwa, Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture.
