Netball South Africa Sponsorship Forum Focusses for Financial Stability
Netball South Africa (NSA) is taking important steps to ensure that their sport continues on its upward trend when it comes to financial stability. The sporting body hosted its Sponsorship Forum as the it looks to ensure that the game remains in good financial health as they look to grow the game for all involved.
On Tuesday 11 March 2025, NSA held the event various entities including government officials, sponsors, and even members of the media were provided a platform to engage in dialogue that would foster partnership-building in a bid to ensure the sport’s future.
“The insightful feedback from sponsors allowed us to better understand their perspectives, needs, and how we can further collaborate to enhance their brands and achieve mutual goals. Additionally, the open discussion with media was a highlight, as it provided us with valuable insights into how we can contribute to the sustainability of independent media.”
Netball South Africa CEO, Modiegi Komane
“Overall, the forum served as a great reminder of the importance of transparent communication and collaboration in strengthening our relationships with both sponsors and the media. One of the “takeaways” was that NSA needs to guard its brand.”
The event also highlighted the positive performances of its female teams as the SPAR Proteas’ historic win over Namibia, and the successful hosting of the 2023 Netball World Cup. The national U21 team also qualified for the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup
On the local front, The Telkom Netball League has taken Mzansi by storm and was expanded to sixteen teams in 2024 which shows that the sport continues to make huge strides.
Komane expressed that series of successful events shows the sport is ready for its next stage of evolution and highlighted that this is only possible because of unwavering support from their sponsors.
“The support from sponsors and stakeholders is crucial to ensuring a financially stable future for netball in South Africa. As the sport continues to grow, maintaining strong partnerships is key to sustaining that it.
“The financial backing and support we receive enable us to invest in talent, facilities, and community outreach,” said Komane, “All of which contribute to the overall development and success of the sport.”
“We are confident that, with continued collaboration from our sponsors and stakeholders, we can further elevate netball’s impact and success across the country. The number of sponsorships for women sports increased by more than 22% in 2024, compared to 2023. While 85% of the current sponsors of women sports plan to continue investing.”
“Wider media coverage has increased awareness of women’s sport which has led to more sponsorship opportunities, and brand can now align with the values of equality and empowerment. Netball South Africa is reaching out to the corporate sponsors out there, to join in this journey, in changing the life of an ordinary South African through the sport of netball.”
While the numerous achievements of netball in South Africa were celebrated it has to be said that there are still some challenges that face women in the sport.
The forum also served as a listening platform, allowing the NSA to align its strategies with the expectations of sponsors and partners. The discussions sparked new collaborations and provided direct engagement with key decision-makers in the broadcast and commercial rights space.
Some of the challenges included, unequal funding of female sports, The discussions focused on strategic solutions for addressing disparities through increased government funding and corporate sponsorship. The forum also examined how limited financial support affects netball’s visibility and recognition compared to other mainstream sports.
It also emphasised the urgent need for greater media coverage of women’s sports, as current visibility is largely skewed towards traditional, male-dominated disciplines.
Expanding broadcasting rights for netball remains a critical priority. Stakeholders explored initiatives to boost attendance and fan engagement at domestic netball matches, strengthening the sport’s connection with its growing supporter base.
Netball SA and its partners addressed the barriers young netball players face in underprivileged communities and explored ways to improve access, development, and professionalisation pathways for aspiring athletes.
Main Photo Caption: Netball South Africa President, Cecilia Molokwane addresses the Netball SA Sponsorship Forum held at the Southern Sun Rosebank in Johannesburg on Tuesday, 11 March 2025. NSA is taking important steps to ensure that their sport continues on its upward trend when it comes to financial stability. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Netball SA CEO, Modiegi Komane, at the Sponsorship Forum, which brought together sponsors and partners in a collaborative environment.
Photo 3 Caption: The Forum agreed on the urgent need for greater media coverage, as current visibility is largely skewed towards male-dominated disciplines.
Photo 4 Caption: Pictured from left, Netball South Africa CEO, Modiegi Komane and President, Cecilia Molokwane, at the Sponsorship Forum Media Engagement held at Southern Sun Rosebank in Johannesburg, where the National Federation gave an overview of its goals during a closed session with sponsors.
Crédito: Link de origem