Linken Gertze is a 21-year-old dynamo, born and bred in Tsumeb, who has mastered the art of balancing playing netball and academics with a unique flair, as this vibrant player literally lives and breathes netball.
She confesses with a smile: “I eat, sleep and dream netball. But I am also focused on my studies, as I need something to fall back on someday.”
New Era caught up with Linken to chat about her whirlwind netball journey, and she had this to share.
Q: What drew you to netball, and how has your love for the game grown over time?
A: Netball was the very first sport I was introduced to as a child. The more I played, the deeper I fell in love with it. Now, it’s not just a game – it’s a lifestyle. Seriously, I sleep, eat and dream netball.
Q: What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
A: I’m somewhat a jack-of-all-trades on the court. I usually play as a goal attack and goal shooter, but I can also step in as a wing attack or centre. I have a special love for shooting, though – there’s nothing like that feeling when I help my team clinch a victory.
Q: Can you share a challenging moment in your netball career and how you overcame it?
A: The first time the coach asked me to play centre, it was wild. I had to adapt quickly to running all over the court, but I knew I had to prove myself. So, I dug deep, and played the best netball of my life in that game.
Q: How do you stay motivated and focused during tough matches?
A: The will to win keeps me going, but staying focused can be a real struggle, especially when you’re playing catch-up. That pressure can make mistakes sneak in, but I try to keep my cool.
Q: What does your training routine look like, and how do you prepare for big games?
A: I am in training mode four days a week, Monday to Thursday. Balancing schoolwork and netball is a juggle, but I make it work. Before big games, I love doing fun activities with my teammates – it’s the perfect way to clear my mind and get into the zone.
Q: How do you handle the pressure during games?
A: I stay calm, listen to my coach and teammates, and trust in my shooting. Consistency is key, and I aim to keep that up throughout the entire game.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve received from a coach?
A: Leave your heart on the court, and fight until the very end.
Q: What are your personal goals for the season?
A: I want my team to stay in the MTC Namibia Netball Premier League by avoiding relegation. That’s the big goal this season.
Q: How do you see the future of netball, both for yourself and the sport as a whole?
A: Netball in Namibia has so much potential, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey. The MTC Namibia Netball League has done wonders for the sport both regionally and nationally, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
– lmupetami@nepc.com.na