Share

Holtzhausen joins UK club

Johannesburg - Proteas netball captain Maryka Holtzhausen will play in the English SuperLeague next season, becoming the first South African international to play in the UK's top domestic league.

Holtzhausen will spend 2015 with Loughborough Lightning and then return to South Africa to resume her World Cup preparations.

"I am very privileged to be given an opportunity to play for Loughborough Lightning in the 2015 season," Holtzhausen said in a statement on Monday.

"I am extremely excited not only about what Lightning can offer me as a player, but what I can offer them. I am truly blessed."

For Lightning, Holtzhausen will bring leadership qualities from her role as South African captain, which will complement the current crop of youthful talent.

The 27-year old is renowned for her creative attacking play and accurate shooting. She is also extremely versatile, being able to play in all three front line attacking positions.

Netball SA chief executive Blanch de la Guerre said Holtzhausen's move to the UK indicated the increasing recognition for the country's netball talent.

"This is a ground breaking moment for netball in South Africa," she said.

"As netball continues to grow across the world we are sure we will see many players make their mark on the international stage."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE