From the rural village of Antioch in Mzimkhulu to becoming the one of KwaZulu-Natal's most promising young defenders, 18 year-old Sinegugu Gamde is proving that big dreams can come from small beginnings. KZN Netball sits down with Gamede, the talented defender from Harry Gwala District and Shayamoya Secondary School in Kokstad, whose remarkable rise has already seen her make name for herself on some of the biggest stages in junior netball.
Gamede captured national attention after being crowned Player of the Tournament at the u19 Telkom Netball Championships, where she played an important role in helping Harry Gwala lift the championship tittle. Her outstanding performances were another milestone in a journey built on hard work, determination and the unwavering support of those around her.
Tell us more about you. Who is Sinegugu Gamede? SG - I am small girl at heart, and I'm 18 years old. I was raised by my grandmother, who has always been there for me through every little journey I have taken. I started playing netball in Grade R and my journey began in Mzimkhulu, in a small village called Antioch. I later moved from Mzimkhulu to Kokstad, where I started high school at Shayamoya.
Congratulations to Harry Gwala for winning the U19 TNC and congratulations on being named the Player of the Tournament. What was going through your mind when your name was announced? SG - I was extremely proud of myself. It was very special moment for me because I could see that all the hard work was paying off. But I also knew that I could not achieve it alone. If it wasn't for my teammates, I wouldn't have done it. At that moment, I was really proud, but I was also grateful to everyone who played a part in helping me get there
Tell us something you enjoy about being a defender? SG - I enjoy making turnovers and putting pressure on the opposition. I also really enjoy it when the defenders around me communicate well. For me, communication is very important because when we work together and understand each other, it makes our defence much stronger
Who inspired and supported your netball journey? SG - My grandmother has been of of my biggest supporters. She has been there for me throughout my journey. I would also like to mention Mam Ngxati and Sir Mnikina, who have played an important role in supporting and guiding me in my netball journey.
Coming from Shayamoya Secondary School in Kokstad,what advice would you give to young players from rural communities? SG- I would encourage young players to join a netball club because that is where you get more exposure and opportunities to develop your talent. Coming from rural area should never make you feel that your dreams are too big. There are opportunities out there and you just have to be willing t work hard and take them when they come.
You play in the KZN Netball Super League. How has the Super League shaped you as the player you are today? SG - The KZN Super League has helped me become more exposed, stronger and more competitive as a player. Playing against experienced and talented player has challenge me to improve my game and has helped me understand what is required to compete at a higher level.
The Telkom Netball League is every young player's dream. How determined are you to get there? SG - I'm very determined. I'm hungry to get there and shine. Playing in the TNL is one of my biggest goals, and I know that I have to continue working hard, learning and improving myself to make that dream a reality.
Representing the SPAR Proteas is the ultimate goal for many players. How close do you believe you are to achieving that dream? SG -I believe I am very , very close. Where do you see Sinegugu Gamede in the next five years, both on and off the netball court? SG- On the court, I see myself playing in an overseas league adn continuing to grow as a netball player. Off the court, I want to be working towards my dream career in Logistics. I want to build a successful future for myself while continuing to pursue my passion in netball.
What does Women's Month mean to you as young person? SG - Women's Month reminds me of the strength, sacrifices and opportunities that women have fought for. As a young woman, it inspires me to believe in myself, work had and never be afraid to dream big.