Coach Jenny Van Dyk on the Proteas’ fifth continental title

Van Dyk praised the electric atmosphere created by the Malawian supporters, even though the hosts were not involved in the final.

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The Proteas were tasked with defending their title and reaffirming their status as the queens of African netball, and they delivered in dominant fashion.

South Africa completed the one-week championship unbeaten, taking a commanding 27–16 lead into the halftime break before cruising to victory.

Van Dyk said she was delighted with her team’s overall performance throughout the tournament.

"Thank you to Malawi for hosting such a fantastic Africa Cup, at such a fantastic arena. It was such a tournament," said van Dyk.

The Proteas achieved their latest continental success despite the absence of captain Khanyisa Chawane in the final. Van Dyk told the national broadcaster that the team devised a solid game plan against the She Cranes of Uganda, executed it well, and dominated in the shooting circle.

She credited the players for sticking to the plan and producing a disciplined performance that secured the title for Team South Africa.

"We know that Uganda will make you work throughout the match. Thanks to them for such a great match but well done as well to team South Africa," added van Dyk.

The former Jaguars and multiple-time Telkom Netball League coach said the objective was always to take an early lead on the scoreboard against Uganda and apply pressure from the outset.

That approach worked perfectly as the Proteas raced to a 16–7 first-quarter advantage, extended it to 27–16 at halftime, and then pushed further ahead to 44–26 before sealing a convincing 56–36 victory at full time.

"We had a good first and second quarter, and ours was to make sure that we maintain the momentum throughout the match. And you know what championships and that is good enough for today," she expressed. 

The former Botswana coach also expressed her satisfaction with the performances of several players during the one-week campaign that culminated in gold for South Africa.

Van Dyk highlighted the depth in her squad and praised the contributions of key individuals, saying they rose to the occasion and played an important role in bringing the trophy home.