PUMA caught up with SPAR Proteas player Khanyisa Chawane in a Q&A to talk all things netball ahead of the Vitality Netball World Cup in Cape Town next month.
What is the strength of the Spar Proteas netball team?
Our ability to stick together no matter what. The energy and comradery we share during camp shows how strong we are together. We are each other’s strength.
How do you stay focused on the now when the World Cup is so close?
I tell myself that what I do now counts for what lies ahead! So not focusing on the future but making sure I give my very best at each task now because later I will reap the rewards.
What are the keys to World Cup success?
Fearlessness and Togetherness. There are so many expectations from the outside world but what we need to do is stick together and be fearless stepping on court for us to reach our goal.
Why is it special to play a World Cup at home?
We get to have home ground advantage. Our families and supporters get to experience world class netball live and us being a part of that is huge. Lastly, that little netball player that we inspire, will get to see live how it is possible to reach your dream.
What are your proudest achievements?
Being part of the World Cup team in 2019 in Liverpool, which was my gateway to being recognised and scouted to play in the international league. Also, being named Player of the Tournament in every tournament I played in 2018.
You got to play in the Super League in Britain. Why should South African players consider this option? Playing in the UK I got to train and play against world class players. That taught to play high intensity games without feeling overwhelmed or panicking. As South African players, we need to get out there and be exposed to high intensity netball for us to grow.
What do you love about your position?
I love my position because you get to control the pace of the game and have many options. The attributes you need are speed and agility, as well as decision making.
Which parts of your game have improved the most over the past year?
I focused on improving my fitness because the C position demands a lot of that, as well as on my defensive skills.
Your thoughts on the Spar Proteas playing kit designed by PUMA?
It’s amazing! I love that compared to many countries we play against; we always look the best.
What attracted you to partner with the brand?
I love PUMA because it’s such a stylish brand. I like to dress sporty all the time, and PUMA has improved my style.
You play in the PUMA Solarstrike Footwear, why do they work for you?
I love the shoe because it is light and flexible. I also love the unique colours.
Favourite PUMA items and why?
The PUMA Loungewear Short Suit women in dusty tan and the PUMA Mayze Stack sneakers. The sneakers are very comfortable and make me look tall! I can wear them with anything formal or casual. And the suit gives me the opportunity to show some leg, while being comfortable.
Your advice to girls who feel barriers are blocking their dreams?
Where you come from or even how you look doesn’t determine where you are going. It is important to know where you want to be in order to set goals and chase them. Believing in God and believing in yourself is vital to achieving your dreams.
What keeps you hungry for success?
What keeps me motivated is that I’m not where I want to be yet. I’ve got goals to achieve so I need to keep working.
You have been assistant coach at Free State University – do you see yourself as a coach when your playing days are over? Yes, because I want to be able to use all the knowledge and experience I am gaining in my playing days, to give back to the upcoming generation. Right now, it gives me the opportunity to sit next to the best coaches and learn.
