Men’s Netball championships ‘key to equality and inclusion’, says Mami Diale

Netball South Africa president Mami Diale says the Men’s Netball National Championships are central to the sport’s efforts to promote gender equality and inclusion.

The tournament began on Sunday and will continue until 9 October 2026 at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, with three-time defending champions Ekurhuleni A aiming to win the title for a fourth successive year.

Diale said the championships were designed not only to develop the men’s game but also to encourage young boys who want to play netball.

“The Males Netball Tournament is highly significant to Netball South Africa. It is an event that speaks directly to gender equality, inclusion, and challenges the stereotype that netball is only for women,” she said.

“For us, this tournament is about development and growth – it gives hope to every young boy who aspires to play.”

Ekurhuleni A have established themselves as the leading side in the competition after claiming the championship in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

However, Diale expects the 2026 tournament to be closely fought and believes the participating teams have arrived with strong squads.

“We have several talented and highly competitive teams in this year’s 2026 National Male Championships, and we have noted that Ekurhuleni has also brought in exciting new talent,” she said.

“The competition is intense, and we will only be able to confirm the champions when the final whistle blows. We support all teams and the display of talent.”

Protea Warriors targeting global progress

The inaugural Men’s Netball World Cup is two years away, and Diale said the development of the sport across Africa had provided encouragement.

She added that further investment would be needed if the Protea Warriors were to compete effectively on the international stage.

“We understand that we need to work hard to ensure that brands buy into the National Protea Warriors,” said Diale.

As part of efforts to expand the men’s game, Netball South Africa has rebranded the National Men’s Championships and launched the National Men’s Super Power Week.

The new event will feature matches between local and African national teams. National teams including USSA, SAPS, DCS, Eswatini and Namibia will take part.

“The more our national team plays, the more competitive they will be at international level,” said Diale.

Netball South Africa has also ensured that the Protea Warriors will participate in the SPAR Challenge as part of its wider support for the men’s team.

“We will continue to invest in the Men’s team because it is an important part of our organisation,” Diale said.

“Africa is ready for the first Men’s Netball World Cup, and the Protea Warriors can’t wait to showcase their talent on an international platform.”