USSA News South African Student Netball Stars Shine in Malaysia Professional League Two South African netball players, Muhluri Hlatshwayo and Adri Kannemeyer, recently made waves in the Malaysian professional netball league (NSL Malaysia), showcasing their talent and skill on an international stage. Both athletes, who honed their craft at South African universities, embraced the challenge of playing abroad and gained invaluable experience competing at the highest level. Adri Kannemeyer: Thriving Under International Competition For Adri Kannemeyer, participating in NSL Malaysia proved to be a transformative experience. The talented Goal Attack (GA) credits her time in Malaysia for significantly enhancing her skills and performance. Having competed in South Africa’s Telkom Netball League (TNL), she found the level of competition in Malaysia to be just as intense and rewarding. "Competing in the NSL Malaysia competition has significantly improved my skills and performance. The competitive nature of this competition is like what we have at home - TNL. Under the guidance of Tracey Robbinson (Head Coach), I’ve learned so much and honed my skills as a GA," said Kannemeyer. Beyond the court, Kannemeyer was touched by the incredible support she received from the state of Johor and Princess Che Puan, who played a pivotal role in fostering an environment that allowed players to excel. "The state of Johor, along with the support of Princess Che Puan, was nothing short of remarkable. They invest in their players and ensure that we are able to perform at a high standard. This was not just about the competition but also creating a safe environment for all the players. We were more like a family than just teammates. I’ll always be eternally grateful for the opportunity to represent both my country and the state of Johor." Muhluri Hlatshwayo: A Life-Changing Experience For Muhluri Hlatshwayo, the opportunity to play in Malaysia was more than just a sporting endeavor - it was an unforgettable cultural and personal journey. She was captivated by Malaysia’s vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its people. However, what stood out most for her was the passion and skill level within Malaysia’s netball community. "From the moment I arrived, I knew that I was in for an incredible adventure. The vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality of the Malaysian people left me in awe. But what really made my trip unforgettable was the opportunity to engage with the netball community in Malaysia," shared Hlatshwayo. The South African player was particularly impressed with the level of competition in Malaysia, which she found to be on par with the standards of the TNL back home. "I must say, I was impressed by the level of competition and passion for the sport. The Netball Malaysia league is definitely on par with what we have back home in South Africa, reminiscent of the Telkom Netball League. The talent, skill, and dedication of the players were truly inspiring, and I felt honored to be a part of it, even if only for a short time." Hlatshwayo also expressed her deep appreciation for the support she received from USSA Netball and UJ Sport, organizations that played a crucial role in her journey to international recognition. "My time in Malaysia was nothing short of amazing, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it. I want to extend my sincerest appreciation to USSA Netball and UJ Sport for their unwavering support and assistance in helping me gain international recognition. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and I’m thankful to be part of such a wonderful community." Looking Ahead Both players have left an indelible mark in Malaysia’s netball scene, demonstrating the quality of South African talent on an international level. Their experiences have not only helped them grow as athletes but also strengthened the ties between South African and Malaysian netball communities. As they return home, Kannemeyer and Hlatshwayo bring with them a wealth of experience, new friendships, and a deep appreciation for the opportunities afforded to them. With their talent and determination, the future of South African netball looks even brighter. Malaysia, it seems, has left a lasting impression on these two remarkable athletes, and who knows? Perhaps one day, they will return to its courts once again. Posted by Staff Writer on 14 Mar, 2025. Source: USSA