Goal defender Cornelia Mupenda who competed in the just-ended Africa Netball Cup, has been offered a chance to play in the Singapore Netball League. 

New Era Sport sat with the netball star for a one-on-one interview. 

How does it feel to compete in the Africa Netball Cup while also being recognised internationally by the Singapore netball league?

It feels incredible and humbling at the same time. On one hand, representing your country in a prestigious tournament like the Africa Netball Cup is a huge honour, it’s about pride, teamwork, and showcasing your talent on home soil or within your continent. On the other hand, being recognised internationally shows that my hard work, and dedication are being noticed on a global scale. It’s motivating because it bridges local and global opportunities, but it also comes with a sense of responsibility to raise my game, inspire others, and represent my sport and country with excellence on all platforms. It’s the best kind of pressure, I would say.

What do you think made you stand out as a player to attract attention from a league as far as Singapore?

Firstly, I would say it’s all God’s work, and I’ll give Him all the credit. Apart from the Higher power, I think my consistency, hard work and passion for the game made me stand out. Competing at a level like the Africa Netball Cup and the tournament we had earlier in June in Australia, showcased my ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different styles of play, which likely caught the attention of leagues like Singapore’s.

What are your thoughts on the opportunity to play in Singapore, and how do you think it will impact your career? 

Playing in Singapore is a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to play overseas, and this opportunity is a huge step in my career. It’s a chance to compete at a high level, learn new playing styles, and grow both on and off the court. I believe it will open doors to more international opportunities, and help me become the best player I can be, while representing where I come from on a global stage.

How are you preparing yourself mentally and physically for the transition to playing netball in a different country and league?

I am staying mentally focused and open to learning new styles of play, and physically, I
am pushing myself to maintain peak fitness, working on my speed, agility and endurance to match the demands of the league. It’s all about being prepared to embrace challenges, and grow both as a player and a person.

What lessons have you learned from competing in the Africa Netball Cup that you hope to take with to Singapore?

Competing in the cup taught me the importance of resilience, teamwork and adaptability. Facing tough opponents under pressure showed me how to stay composed, and make smart decisions. I also learned the value of clear communication, and trusting my teammates. These lessons will be invaluable in Singapore as I adjust to a new team, playing style and environment.

What advice would you give to other African players aspiring to compete internationally in netball?

Stay dedicated to your craft, and never stop working on your skills. Use every opportunity, whether big or small, to showcase your talent, and learn from the experience. Stay open to growth, both on and off the court, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to compete on any stage. Your hard work will eventually open doors to international opportunities. Lastly, never forget to pray. -lmupetami@nepc.com.na