All eyes in South African netball turn to Sun Park where Power Week 2 of the Telkom Netball League is set to take place from 13–17 June. The Golden Fireballs, who stormed through Power Week 1 undefeated with six straight wins and a perfect 12 points, return as frontrunners. One of their standout players, Boitumelo Mahloko, who also represents the SPAR Proteas, is determined to keep the momentum burning bright.
A League That Builds More Than Skill
When asked how her time in the Telkom Netball League has shaped her as both a player and a person, Mahloko didn’t hesitate to express its impact.
“The Telkom netball league shaped my growth immensely. To be in such a space with so many talented players makes you really look at always improving your game which ultimately grows me as an individual,” she said. “The game has taught me how to fit in with a team and to think for someone other than yourself and I think that’s a big character to have as a person.”
Personal Highlights and Lessons from Power Week 1
Golden Fireballs were untouchable during the first leg, collecting 12 points from six dominant performances. For Mahloko, however, it wasn’t just about the scoreboard.
“My biggest challenge was my injury . To sit out while my team was playing was tough to watch but I did everything to do my part from the bench,” she reflected. “A highlight that isn’t really personal is that the team pulled an 6/6 win for the power week, we agreed that’s what we wanted and I was glad to see us pull it through.”
With Power Week 2 fast approaching, the stakes are higher and teams more eager to break the Fireballs' unbeaten streak. Mahloko revealed that the preparation this time around is even more intense.
“I’ve been doing my back to [be able to] play and that has been my biggest focus. I’m also focusing on gelling with the team because combination work is so important for any team sport,” she explained. “As a team this time around we are really trying to be honest about our play and with one another and I think that’s doing a lot of good for us.”
The Ones to Watch
While the Fireballs have been dominant, Mahloko remains humble and wary of the competition.
“Personally I think every team is going to be a challenge and we can not underestimate any team. Everybody is really fighting for a top 4 spot so I won’t be shocked to see every single team bring their A -game against us and that’s exactly what we are preparing for,” she said. “We really just want to stick to being consistent and playing the game the fireballs know we can play.”
Goals Beyond the Scoreboard
With one eye on victory and another on progress, Mahloko shared her hopes for Power Week 2—both individually and for her team.
“Personally, I’ll be very happy to step on the court and maintain my health. It’s been a big mental strain to not be able to play the game.” she said. “Going back I want to play my best netball and gradually grow from there. For the team I really hope we get to tick off all the boxes we have put out for ourselves.”
A Glimpse Into the Future
Having already made her mark with the Golden Fireballs and worn the national colours of the SPAR Proteas, Mahloko is dreaming big.
“I would love to see myself in a World Cup and Commonwealth team so I'm looking forward to those milestones.”
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
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