Netball South Africa (NSA) has issued a clarification on its stance regarding non-endorsed netball events following uncertainty arising from its statement released on 30 July 2026.
The federation reaffirmed that it will not endorse or support any netball event that charges participation fees exceeding R1,000 per player, regardless of the organiser. NSA said the policy is aimed at ensuring the sport remains inclusive, accessible and affordable, particularly for school-going players and those from disadvantaged communities.
According to NSA, its decision not to endorse an event does not prevent private organisers from hosting competitions. Rather, it means the event is not sanctioned, accredited or conducted under the federation’s governance framework.
NSA also clarified that participation in a non-endorsed event will not automatically result in the disqualification, exclusion or sanction of players, coaches, umpires or officials. Any concerns arising from involvement in such events will instead be considered on a case-by-case basis in line with the federation’s Constitution, rules and disciplinary procedures.
The governing body stressed that it and its affiliated structures have a responsibility to inform members about the status of privately organised competitions, as well as any concerns relating to safeguarding, affordability, accessibility and governance. It said previous communications were intended to fulfil that responsibility and were not disciplinary decisions against any individual.
NSA further confirmed that the KZN Super League is an endorsed competition operating within its recognised governance framework and should not be grouped with privately organised, non-endorsed leagues.
The federation reiterated its support for leagues and competitions that comply with its Constitution, governance standards and development objectives, while distancing itself from any privately organised event that has not received its endorsement. It added that it cannot accept responsibility for the administration, management or conduct of such competitions.
NSA also addressed ongoing urgent court proceedings in which it has been cited as the third respondent, despite no substantive relief being sought against it. The federation described its inclusion in the matter as unnecessary, stating that it intends to place the correct position before the court because its policies and governance framework have been brought into question.
Finally, NSA clarified that its 30 July statement was intended to express concern over the growing commercialisation of school-level netball and the impact that high participation fees could have on young players and their families. It emphasised that the statement was not intended to suggest that any specific organiser had acted unlawfully or exploited players.
The federation maintained that its position is based on promoting inclusion rather than exclusion and reiterated that events charging more than R1,000 per player will not receive NSA endorsement or support