The NPC is the biggest competition on SSA’s calendar of events, providing the perfect backdrop for old and new players to converge at one venue and later turn mingle as a social gathering.
SSA president, Mash Matsetela has hailed the magnitude of the NPC, further saying the tournament’s competitiveness makes the game grows by leaps and bounds.
During his incumbency, Matsetela has positioned South Africa as one of the regular nations at World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) World Cups with players unearthed at the NPC.
“As the largest softball tournament in the country, the NPC provides a significant platform for provinces to compete against each other. Provinces send their best players based on current form, making the tournament even more exciting for both players and spectators. Viewed by both on-the-pitch spectators and through live streaming, the NPC’s popularity is gaining momentum. The talent these players showcase at the NPC is the stuff of sporting legend. They [players] do it with high tempo to impress national coaches from age groups to seniors who come to scout for talent at this event. The NPC is organised with the ultimate goal of determining the national champions.
“As the mother body, we also use the tournament to select national teams. While the thrills and frills of the NPC are not only limited to players, umpires and scorers are also given the opportunity to practice their skills. Great match officials were unearthed at the NPC and tournaments like these all over the world. Meanwhile, coaches are also given an opportunity to implement their strategies and tactics. This is the nature of the NPC and were are happy about the transformation agenda we have put in place for the enhancement of the game in our calculated bid to be on par with other world superpowers,” said Matsetela.
The decision by the host province, North West Softball Association (NWSA) was influenced by the stylishness of the sport arena at Royal Marang Hotel.
This hospitality establishment provides a comprehensive set of outdoor facilities for a variety of sports, and this promises to also provide the perfect conditions for high-octane softball performance.
NWSA chairperson, Archie Ditlhake said the provincial governing body is ready to welcome hordes of softball enthusiasts to the platinum province.
“Since the announcement by SSA that we have been given the responsibility to organise the NPC, we have been toiling hard to make sure that this event becomes a resounding success. We have set up a dedicated local organising committee in time to ensure that all bases are covered. From a logistical point of view, we have also ensured that playing fields are prepared and other nitty-gritty regarding the tournament are dealt with,” he said.
Limpopo men will make the great trek to North West full of pomp and zeal, solidly entrenched as the defending champions in their section.
Dinare used home ground advantaged when they won last year’s edition at Polokwane Cricket Grounds after snatching a hard-fought 7-5 victory against Gauteng in a tension-filled grand finale.
Under the tutelage of head coach Thapelo Seshoka, Limpopo managed to redeem themselves following their disappointing run at the 2023 edition in Durban.
Seshoka has inherited a formidable pool of competitive players discovered by Lemo Raphasha, the then provincial coach who is now at the helm of the senior national side.
Seshoka has identified their arch-rivals, Gauteng and old nemesis, Kwa-Zulu Natal as their chief threats.
“Everyone at the NPC is gunning for Limpopo, however we are unfazed. We are going into this tournament fully aware that every [provincial] team wants to beat Limpopo and celebrate that victory. Our opponents always bring their best players because they are aware of the rich talent coming from Limpopo. This is the kind of talent that makes Limpopo the home of softball. Our track record over the years speaks volumes and we intend to maintain it for eternity.
“In our team selection, we have selected almost all the players who have been part of the provincial squad and fused them with newcomers who have been showing great improvement in the recent provincial league season. Generational mix is always good because it brings fresh perspective in our tactical approach. The good news is that we still have international stars who have played in World Cups. The Limpopo team will feature players who are dependable to both the fielding and batting line-ups. With so much depth in the squad, I am optimistic that we will defend our title successfully,” said Seshoka.
Meanwhile, Gauteng women will try to pull all the stops to defend their crown as well.
The Roses, as Gauteng ladies are affectionately called, produced a volcanic display to beat University Sports of South Africa in the finals in Polokwane.
Head coach Prince Mkhabela has expressed buoyancy in his team, saying he has amassed a dynamic squad of generational combination as part of the province’s Vision 2025, a developmental agenda.
“Our team is going to be blend of seasoned, experience and fresh talent, with a clear focus on player development and team growth. The team will feature a mix of experienced players and rising stars, with the experienced players playing a vital role in mentoring and sharing their knowledge with the younger generation. This mentorship will strengthen the team’s mental resilience and foster a culture of continuous learning.
With the new coaching staff, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise, we are aligned with the vision of Gauteng Softball Association. Our goal is to develop players from across Gauteng, ensuring they reach their full potential, both physically and in terms of their softball skills. “Gauteng has long been known for its extreme talent in softball, and we are committed to pushing the boundaries of development within the women’s team. With this in mind, we have set a clear four-year goal to build a team that can consistently contribute players to the national team. Additionally, the ongoing development program, which will continue after the NPC, is designed to keep players motivated, professional, and driven throughout the off-season. This program will provide players with the tools they need to continue improving and to keep progressing towards achieving excellence,” said Mkhabela.