As part of our spotlight on standout performers from the 2025 Telkom Netball League, we caught up with Owethu Ngubane from the Gauteng Golden Fireballs. A SPAR Protea and dynamic goal shooter, Owethu was named Best Shooter in Division 1 and reflects on her season, personal growth, and what continues to fuel her passion for the game.
Date of Birth: 19 April 2002
Height: 182 cm
Positions: GA/GS
Favourite thing to do at the moment: Learning new TikTok challenges
What’s on your playlist right now: Daniel Caesar
Role model: My mother
A quote or saying you live by: Never let the fear of fighting stop you from playing the game.
Q&A with Owethu Ngubane — Best Shooter Division 1, TNL 2025
- What does it mean to you to be named one of the best players of TNL 2025?
It means absolutely everything. It’s not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the hard work. To be recognised at this level is truly humbling, and I carry this honour with so much pride — not just for myself, but for everyone who believed in me. - Which moment from this season stands out as your favourite or most memorable?
Definitely the final — the energy, the pressure, and the way we all pulled together. That match felt like everything clicked. I remember looking around at my teammates during the final whistle and thinking, “This is what we trained for. This is our moment.” - How did you stay motivated and consistent throughout the season?
My “why” kept me grounded. I reminded myself every day why I started playing netball — the love for the game, the people who support me, and my dream to inspire others. Surrounding myself with a strong support system, sticking to a disciplined routine, and always finding joy in the small wins helped me stay locked in. - What has this season taught you — on and off the court?
On the court, I learned that resilience is everything — every game is a mental and physical battle. Off the court, I learned the value of balance. Taking care of my mental health and making time for rest helped me perform at my best. Growth isn’t just about training hard — it’s about training smart. - Who or what inspired your performance this year?
My family and teammates, 100%. Their unwavering support is what fuels me. Also, my coach — they pushed me beyond my limits, saw potential in me that I didn’t always see in myself, and challenged me to grow every step of the way. - What advice would you give to young netballers hoping to follow in your footsteps?
Believe in your dream, even when it feels far away. Show up every day — even when you don’t feel like it — and put in the work. Stay coachable, stay humble, and never let fear stop you from trying. Your journey is yours — own it with pride. - Challenging Moments: What was the most challenging part of the season for you, and how did you overcome it?
I think the most challenging part was maintaining our winning streak and performance standards. To overcome that, we constantly reminded ourselves of the goals and achievements we set at the start of the season. - Team Dynamics: How important was teamwork in your success this season? Can you share a moment where teamwork made a significant difference?
Teamwork was everything. There was a match where we were trailing, and instead of falling apart, we regrouped. We started communicating better, lifted each other, and made one of the biggest comebacks of the season. That win wasn’t about individual brilliance — it was about heart and unity. - Looking Back: If you could give one piece of advice to yourself at the start of the season, what would it be?
Trust yourself more. You’re ready, even if you don’t always feel it. Stop doubting and start owning the space you’ve worked so hard to be in. - What’s next for you — any goals or dreams you’re chasing post-TNL 2025?
I want to keep growing — push myself to play at an even higher level. I also want to give back, mentor young athletes, and be part of building the future of netball in South Africa. The journey doesn’t stop here — it’s only the beginning.
