Q&A with SPAR Proteas captain Khanyisa Chawane

PUMA South Africa: Your thoughts on the new Spar Proteas playing kit designed by PUMA?

Khanyisa Chawane: I am in love with the design and can’t wait to wear it and see how the whole group will look in it.

READ MORE: Netball SA and PUMA unveil new men and women team kits

You were named captain of the Spar Proteas netball team. What do you believe are the keys to being a great leader (the leadership characteristics you already possess and those you aim to develop)?

I believe I am a leader with great vision, emotionally intelligent, resilient, and passionate. I aim to develop and bring much more to the team because I am a strategic thinker, and I can analyse situations and identify opportunities to better the team.

How are you enjoying all the media interviews?

It can be a little too much because I’m struggling to keep up with all of them but if I get to promote netball, then I’m happy.

How is the Spar Proteas netball team dealing with changes in coaching and player retirements?

Everyone seems excited and is responding very well to the change, so looking forward now to just getting on the court to play.

Tell us about coach Jenny van Dyk?

I love her, she is a visionary and is very clear with what she wants to achieve with this team and it’s amazing to be a part of it. She’s a professional, we are here to work and that’s what is needed.

What are the strengths of this Spar Proteas netball team?

The strength is in our togetherness, commitment to one another and what we need to do as well as the passion and determination we have towards our performances and achieving our goals.

Are you looking forward to the series against Jamaica in January 2025?

Yes, most of us haven’t been to Jamaica and they are one of the top teams in the world. We don’t usually get opportunities to play against them, so we are looking forward to it.

Tell us about playing for the Cardiff Dragons and the benefits of playing for a club overseas?

I enjoyed playing for the club this year, it was an amazing experience, and I had the best teammates. The greatest benefit was having the opportunity to play against the best athletes abroad and being challenged. But there were also fun times off court, with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

What attracted you to partner with PUMA?

I’m not really a stylish person so I did think the brand would change my style which it has. Also, I play in the PUMA Eliminate shoes and they are so comfortable, I just love them. So, I’m happy to be part of the PUMA fam.

You are active on social media, what type of content do you share?

It is mainly my sport content, during a tournament, after a game. I love engaging my fans on how I am feeling during those times, so they can share in those moments. I also like sharing my PUMA experiences, so I can show how much the brand supports me on and off the court.

Tell us about your vacation in Zanzibar this year – what all did you enjoy about the trip?

It was a much-needed vacation; the UK season was long and demanded a lot from me in every aspect … so, it was a much-needed break away and I do not regret it one bit. I enjoyed the different islands, which were so beautiful to see and experience. The trip gave me the peace of mind I needed.