A team of young women from Redhill School just made history by becoming the first South African school to win the World Schools Netball Cup.
Loughborough, England (09 July 2025) – South Africa, we’ve got a brand-new set of champions… and they’re still in school!
Redhill’s under-17 netball team has officially made history as the first South African school ever to win the World Schools Netball Cup, and they did it with all the flair, determination and heart we’ve come to expect from our local stars.
Representing South Africa on the world stage, these young legends travelled to Loughborough, England (aka the home of netball in the UK) and came home with gold medals, big smiles and memories to last a lifetime.
And yes, they went undefeated. Like, not even one loss. Not one.
This was the first time a South African school had ever been invited to the World Schools Netball Cup and Redhill made sure it wouldn’t be the last. Taking on schools from four different continents (46 teams from 29 schools to be exact) the Redhill squad showed up and showed off. Over three jam-packed days, they powered through every match, beat Sedbergh School from England in a nail-biting final, and claimed the crown.
Their style of play was sharp, smart and calm under pressure and even international commentators took note, saying the team was structured, composed and totally in control.
“No ways, We just won that!”
Those were the exact words from team captain Suhani Ahuja when she held the trophy high. And honestly? Same.
“It felt like there was a bigger purpose to play for and that’s what made us play our hearts out,” she shared.
For some players, this was their final school match ever and they made it count in the most epic way.
Head coach Ashleigh Gray called the whole thing “surreal and emotional” saying watching her girls lift the trophy was a moment she’ll never forget.
“This was our first time competing in the World School Games and to walk away not only as participants but as champions, representing South Africa with pride, was a moment of magic,” she said.
And then there’s Asi Mthethwa, who earned the title of “Most Valuable Player” in the final. But instead of just basking in the glory, she’s already thinking about the next generation:
“We’ve hopefully opened the door for future age groups to experience international netball.”
Back in Johannesburg, Redhill School is buzzing. Executive Head Joseph Gerassi said the win is a “powerful reflection of talent, dedication and unshakeable team spirit.” The whole school community, from teachers and parents to alumni and fellow students, is getting ready to celebrate big time.
They’re planning a special assembly to honour the team, and trust us… those awards are going to sparkle almost as much as the gold medals.
“This victory belongs to everyone who has supported, encouraged, and believed in these young athletes,” Gerassi added.
South African netball is also on the rise.
We hosted the Netball World Cup last year. The DStv Schools Netball Challenge is now in its fifth year and growing stronger. Young girls from every corner of the country are picking up netballs and dreaming big. And now, thanks to Redhill’s U17s, they’ve got real proof that those dreams can go global.
More than just a win, this moment is a spotlight on the future of South African sport. And it’s bright.
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