At 28 years old, Didintle “Didi” Keebine has solidified her place in South African netball as a fierce competitor, a humble leader, and a source of inspiration for young athletes across the country. From her beginnings in Mafikeng to the international stage, Didi’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. In this exclusive interview, she reflects on her journey, the challenges she’s faced, and her hopes for the future.
From Mafikeng to National Call-Ups: A Journey of Growth
Didi’s introduction to netball started in Grade 1, though it wasn’t something she initially took seriously. “I was the tallest in the class, and they just asked me to shoot,” she recalls with a smile. But by the time she was 12, Didi’s natural ability began to shine through when she was selected for the provincial team, a moment that made her realise her potential.
“I didn’t think I had it in me until then. Being selected changed my mindset,” she says. From Mafikeng Primary, she continued to build her netball career through high school, playing for Hoërskool Zeerust and receiving numerous provincial call-ups. It was during her final year that she made the SA U18 squad — a moment that laid the foundation for what was to come.
After high school, Didi’s career continued to rise, with appearances in USSA tournaments and Varsity Cup competitions. However, her transition to university netball wasn’t easy. “When I got to university, I spent a lot of time on the bench,” she says candidly. “But I kept pushing.” Her persistence paid off, and she earned spots in the SA U21 squad, the North West Flames, and ultimately the Proteas senior squad.
Silver Success at Fast5
One of Didi’s career highlights was South Africa’s historic second-place finish at the 2022 Fast5 Netball World Series in New Zealand. “Winning silver was unbelievable,” she says. But the journey to the podium wasn’t without its challenges.
“For me, it was about mindset,” she explains. “When God places you somewhere, you can’t limit yourself. You have to ask, ‘Why not me?’” Didi believes that shifting her mindset helped her and the team push past their limits. “As a team, we realised that we could change the narrative. We backed each other up, and it showed on the court.”
She also highlights the importance of faith, even in the face of intimidating opponents. “It’s interesting how, at the start of my netball journey, I often felt the need to shrink myself in big spaces. It was the norm – that I’m just a small black girl amongst people who were taller and bigger than me. And I was reminded that we’re all here for a reason. We’re all here to showcase our talents, without reservation. It is through this I learned that my playing small doesn’t serve the world.”
A New Chapter with the Gauteng Jaguars
In 2024, Didi made the bold move to join the Gauteng Jaguars after spending years with the North West Flames. It was a decision that came with apprehension but ultimately proved transformative. “It was scary at first, being in a new environment,” she admits. “But it turned out to be one of the best moves for my career. The Jaguars have such a competitive spirit, and I learned so much from their mentality and grit.”
Reflecting on the experience, Didi is grateful for the impact it has had on her growth as a player. “I’ve never trained like that before. The way the Jaguars carry themselves, the competitiveness, the grit—it was incredible,” she says. For Didi, faith played a huge part in her transition. “I believe God is really involved in that journey with me.”
The Inspirations Behind the Athlete
Throughout her netball journey, Didintle Keebine has been shaped by the incredible people who guided her both on and off the court. One of the most significant figures is Romé Dreyer, a former Proteas player who left a lasting impression. “Romé taught me about grit,” Didi explains. “She always pushed through no matter how tough things got. I asked her once how she did it, and she said, ‘Fake it ’til you make it.’ She made the hard things look doable, and that inspired me.”
Didi’s high school coaches and teachers also played key roles in her development. She credits Juffrou Katryn van der Merwe for instilling a lifelong lesson: “It’s your attitude that determines your altitude.” This simple yet profound teaching guided Didi through her career. She also remembers Juffrou Ronel Schutte who acted as a second mother during difficult times, helping her balance her academics and netball. These mentors shaped not only her game but also her outlook on life, instilling the belief that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.
As Didi’s career progressed, another major influence entered her life: renowned coach Dr. Elsje Jordaan. Under Jordaan’s guidance, Didi transitioned from playing as a shooter to mastering the wing defence position. “Coach Elsje had a huge impact on me,” Didi says. “She taught me the ins and outs of wing defence, a position I had never played before. More than that, she taught me to trust the process. Sometimes things happen quickly for others, and for others, it takes time. But eventually, we all get there.”
These coaches and mentors not only honed Didi’s technical skills but also shaped her mindset, reinforcing the belief that resilience, grit, and the right attitude are the keys to achieving greatness.
Coaching the Next Generation
Beyond her playing career, Didi has taken on the role of Head of Netball and Athletics at The King’s College and Preparatory School in Bryanston. Coaching, for her, is more than just about teaching skills; it’s about inspiring belief in her players. “I see a mini-me in them,” she says. “The blessings and gifts you have aren’t just for you—they’re for others.”
She’s passionate about pushing her players to develop grit and resilience. “Kids today are coddled. They don’t know how to have that grit, how to be competitive but still humble,” she explains. “I push them to realise that just because someone is taller or more experienced doesn’t mean you should eliminate yourself. You have to stand tall.”
Picture: Marcel Sigg
Looking Ahead: Dreams and Goals
As Didi reflects on her journey, she acknowledges that there’s still more to achieve. “I’ve been knocking on the Proteas’ door for seven years now,” she says. “It can be disheartening at times, but I’ve learned to trust the process.” Her ultimate goal is to represent South Africa at the highest levels, while expending her netball academy, Dineo Gaditshwane, and continue giving back to the community that shaped her.
“Sports has given me so much, and I want to be a vessel for the next generation. I know how it feels not to have the right gear or support. I want to help kids from disadvantaged backgrounds realise their talent and achieve their dreams.”
Advice to Aspiring Athletes
For young players who look up to her, Didi has a powerful message: “Keep on keeping on. You cannot give up. It’s in your toughest moments that you’re being prepared for where you are headed. Even if you’re going through a difficult time, it’s nothing compared to the glory that’s yet to be revealed. You’re not doing it just for yourself—there are people looking up to you. Trust the process, have a good attitude, and believe that if you set your mind on something, you can really achieve it.”
A Legacy of Grit and Grace
As Didi continues to break barriers in netball, her journey serves as a beacon of hope for many young women, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Whether on the court or in the coaching arena, Didi Keebine’s grit, faith, and determination are shaping the future of South African netball—and beyond.
