Every sporting journey begins somewhere. For South African netball star Phophi Nematangari, it started with a simple pass on a Grade 1 sports field.
What began as a school sports day introduction to netball has since evolved into one of the most inspiring journeys in South African sport, taking Nematangari from local courts to provincial competition, the Telkom Netball League, and ultimately to captaining South Africa on the international stage.
Today, Nematangari stands as one of the brightest young leaders in South African netball, embodying the spirit of Telkom’s Stand Tall: From First Pass to Crown campaign.
Earlier this year, she captained the Baby SPAR Proteas to their highest-ever finish at the Netball World Youth Cup, leading South Africa into the semi-finals for the first time in the tournament’s history. While the achievement marked a historic milestone for the country, Nematangari admits the experience still feels surreal.
“It still feels surreal,” she says. “It’s definitely not by might, but by the spirit of the living God.”
Her rise to the top has been built on years of dedication, sacrifice and perseverance. Like many South African netball players, her journey began through school sport, where countless dreams are first nurtured and developed.
From those early beginnings, Nematangari progressed through the ranks, supported by the structures that continue to shape South African netball, from schools and clubs to provincial teams, the Telkom Netball League and national representation.
Before captaining South Africa on the global stage, she had already established herself as a key player within the Gauteng Jaguars setup, helping the team secure its sixth Telkom Netball League title in 2023.
The league continues to play a critical role in developing future stars by providing young athletes with the opportunity to compete against the country’s best talent. For Nematangari, those experiences have been instrumental in shaping both her playing ability and leadership qualities.
While her achievements on court have earned admiration, Nematangari believes leadership extends far beyond personal success. As one of South Africa’s emerging netball role models, she understands the responsibility of inspiring younger players who see themselves in her journey.
Her story serves as a powerful example of what becomes possible when talent is supported by opportunity, guidance and belief.
Despite her growing list of achievements, Nematangari remains focused on the future. Back in the Telkom Netball League, she continues to help drive the Gauteng Jaguars toward success, determined to overcome challenges and compete at the highest level.
“Getting back to the top is a goal for us,” she says. “It has been a challenging season, but we are learning a lot from those challenges. We want to reward ourselves by finishing as strongly as possible.”
Her outlook reflects the essence of resilience and determination that defines champions.
When asked what the Stand Tall: From First Pass to Crown campaign means to her, Nematangari’s response perfectly captures the campaign’s message.
“It means stand tall, regardless of the circumstances around you,” she says. “Your crown will come. Just continue standing tall wherever you are. Show up as the tallest version of yourself getting to that crown. It all depends on how you show up.”
For the young girl who first discovered netball at a Grade 1 sports day, becoming a national captain once seemed unimaginable. Today, she stands as living proof that every first pass has the potential to become something extraordinary.
Through Stand Tall: From First Pass to Crown, Telkom continues to celebrate stories like Phophi Nematangari’s, highlighting the players, coaches, communities and development pathways that are shaping the future of South African netball.
