For the first time ever, the Netball World Cup (NWC) will take place on African soil, marking a historic moment for the sport. From July 28th to August 6th, Cape Town will be buzzing with anticipation as the opening match draws near.
SPAR Proteas: South Africa’s National Team
The South African national team, the SPAR Proteas, is eagerly waiting for the tournament to begin. Nisha Rupnarian, the team manager, expressed her gratitude to the City of Cape Town for making the event a reality. She said, “We, as a nation, are very resilient and resourceful. We are going to put on a show that the world will be in awe of.”
Preparations for the NWC
Organizing the NWC has required an immense amount of effort and organization, including the construction of netball courts at the Cape Town International Convention Center (ICC). The courts have been built with seating capacity ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 and have changing rooms and fabricating areas behind the court. The venue is also equipped with proper lighting and built-in chairs. Safety Officer Heins van Juuren said that the construction project began last year, and the transformation of the venue into netball courts took about two weeks.
Safety and Security Measures
Safety and security are a top priority for the NWC organizers and residents of Cape Town. They have developed stringent security measures for the event, including the involvement of major teams such as medics, the Fire Department, South African Police Service, and the Air Force. While the exact number of security personnel is not being disclosed, van Juuren confirmed that all major teams would be involved.
Official Fan Parks
Fans across South Africa can indulge in the NWC experience at official fan parks that have been opened in various provinces. These parks offer spectators the opportunity to come together and watch the games in a lively and supportive atmosphere.
A Milestone for Netball in Africa
The Netball World Cup 2019 serves as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the South African nation and represents a significant milestone for the sport on the African continent. As Cape Town readies itself for the global spotlight, fans around the world eagerly await the spectacle that promises to leave them in awe.
How to Get Involved
To purchase tickets and follow match schedules, visit the Netball World Cup website. Don’t miss this historic event on African soil!
