The Baby Proteas are ready to take on the world at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar after a send-off from Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie.
Earlier this week, McKenzie handed over two refurbished netball courts at Mid Ennerdale Primary School, marking the Baby Proteas’ official farewell.
BABY PROTEAS GEAR UP FOR GLOBAL SHOWDOWN
“The Baby Proteas are a vital development stage for future Proteas stars,” McKenzie said.
“They have consistently qualified for the World Youth Cup and continue to inspire with their unbeaten runs against top teams.
“We believe in them and know they will make South Africa proud.”
Building momentum ahead of the tournament, the squad, coached by Precious Mthembu with former Protea Phumza Maweni as assistant, warmed up in London with matches against Hertfordshire University and England U21 before settling in Gibraltar.
Looking ahead to the competition, South Africa have been drawn in Pool D alongside Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Malawi, and Fiji.
Their opening clash is against Barbados on Saturday, 20 September.
FIXTURES:
20 September – South Africa v Barbados – 19:00
22 September – Trinidad & Tobago v South Africa – 10:00
23 September – Malawi v South Africa – 17:00
24 September – Fiji v South Africa – 19:00
Fans are encouraged to support the Baby Proteas by tuning in for free on NetballPass and YouTube.
The medal stage matches, from 26 to 28 September, will stream exclusively on NetballPass.
The Baby Proteas are chasing a podium finish in Gibraltar, a mission that mirrors the exciting rise of netball back home, where new talent is emerging every season.