Shiko Mokaila on guiding the Protea Warriors to fourth Africa Cup title

The Protea Warriors edged neighbours Eswatini 49-45 in a hard-fought final at the International Sports Centre in Kasarani Kenya, to retain their continental crown.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mokaila says the triumph is particularly emotional given his journey from team captain to head coach.

“It’s a proud moment. I was part of the 2023 title as captain, so to come back as coach and win in my first nine months in the role means a lot. But the credit belongs to the players and the staff. They bought into what we wanted to do in a short space of time.

“The competition was tough. The African teams are physical and well-organised, and they get under you rather than contest in the air. Every team made us work. I also want to acknowledge the teams that couldn’t be here for financial reasons. It shows the men’s game needs proper structures and funding across the continent, and we want to help drive that,” said Mokaila.

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The Protea Warriors maintained their unbeaten run throughout the tournament, winning all five of their fixtures in Nairobi.

While pleased with the team’s character, Mokaila believes there is still room for improvement as they look towards the inaugural Men’s Netball World Cup in 2028.

“I’m pleased with the character of the group. We haven’t been perfect. Our error count and decision-making under pressure are still areas we need to clean up, and we want to play more as a unit than as individuals.

“But the defence was outstanding, and the team stayed calm when it mattered. Winning while there’s still work to do is a good position to be in,” added Mokaila.

Mokaila says the national team will regroup for a camp ahead of their first Test series in January, while the programme will also use the opportunity to strengthen its player pipeline.

“In January we have the Test series, and we’re opening trials for the senior 24. It will be my first time selecting a side at Nationals after taking the role eight months back. We’ll also give Under-23 players game time, so we’re building the pipeline for 2028 and beyond.

“The long-term goal hasn’t changed. We want a world-class South African side that reaches the final of the first Men’s Netball World Cup. To get there, we need a dedicated budget and formal structures for the men’s programme, and I’m committed to leading that alongside Netball South Africa,” he expressed.