Representing her country at 19, Unam Jaguars’ netball player Grace Mutyayi has made an impressive mark on the court. 

For her, playing at the senior level was both a dream come true and a source of immense pride. 

“It’s a feeling of immense pride, and it means a lot to me personally. I have worked so hard to get here, and knowing that I am wearing the national colours is incredibly motivating,” she shares. 

This milestone is not only for her, but also for her family, coaches, and teammates who have supported her every step of the way.

Transitioning from junior to senior-level netball has been a challenging journey. The intensity of the competition and the physical and mental demands have pushed her to adjust her game. 

“The biggest challenge has been adapting to the faster pace and the higher intensity. It’s a big leap, but I embrace the challenge,” she says. To overcome this, she has focused on improving her fitness, skills and decision-making to keep up with the pace of the game at senior level.

Her inspiration comes from players like New Zealand’s Kate Heffernan and Casey Kopua, along with her teammates. Their consistency, leadership and ability to stay calm under pressure have shaped her playing style. “They have influenced me to balance strength with agility and always push for better results,” she noted.

Balancing netball with education and other commitments can be tough, but time management and prioritisation have been key. “Staying organised and making time to rest is crucial,” she says, adding that it’s her faith that keeps her grounded and focused.

Looking ahead, her short-term goal is to hone her skills, especially in attacking and defensive positioning. Long-term, she aims to compete in major international tournaments, ultimately becoming one of the top players in her position. She also wants to mentor the next generation of players. 

Her advice to aspiring and budding athletes? “Stay committed, work hard and always believe in yourself. 

– lmupetami@nepc.com.na