South African netball has lost one of its greatest pioneers, Martha ‘Manzo’ Machoga, who passed away after a brief illness. Machoga, a trailblazer in every sense, was one of the first black players to represent South Africa on the international stage, earning 98 caps over a remarkable career. She took part in the 1998 and 2002 Commonwealth Games, as well as the 1999 and 2003 Netball World Cups, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Born and raised in Soweto, Martha “Manzo” Machoga never set out to become a netball star. In fact, her journey into the sport began by chance. A schoolmate invited her to watch a netball game, and from that moment on, her trajectory was set. Despite her humble beginnings, she rose to become one of South Africa’s most iconic netball players.
Manzo was known for her unparalleled skill on the court, earning her the nickname “Manzo Magic.” Her unpredictable, dynamic style of play left defenders bewildered and fans in awe. Her former coach, Elize Kotze, reflected in a Facebook Post that Manzo was one of the most creative and instinctive shooters in South African netball history. She outplayed, outthought, and outmanoeuvred her opponents, always ahead of her time.
“Manzo you were one of the most creative, unpredictable, instinctive shooters in the history of South African Netball.
Your ability to outplay, out-think, out-run, or out-dodge your opponent was poison and a nightmare to many a defender and team. I promise you we feared playing against Soweto and specifically you. We could not analyze, anticipate or predict, because you never knew what was going to happen next.”
Elize Kotze
Amanda Mynhardt, another South African netball star, recognised Machoga’s talent, calling her one of the top 12 players she had ever played with or against.
Manzo’s story is one of overcoming adversity. Growing up in apartheid-era South Africa, she faced systemic racism, but her determination saw her rise above these challenges. As she once recounted, it wasn’t easy being one of only two black players on the national team. Despite the segregation and racial tension, Manzo remained focused on her love for the game, paving the way for future generations of black netball players.
Inspiration To Black Girls
Manzo wasn’t just a legend for her achievements on the court, but for the inspiration she provided to young black girls across the country, especially in Soweto. Simphiwe Sithebe, a former U21 SPAR Baby Proteas Captain, recalls her influence: “She was one of those people that every girl that played netball in Soweto looked up to.” Her presence alone inspired a new generation of players, showing them that success was possible despite the challenges they faced.
Simphiwe continues, “She was a great person, a great personality, and a great leader. When I was in the u21 Squad and she was in the Senior SA Team, we would always go and watch her play and be inspired by her on the court.” Manzo’s role as a role model extended far beyond her personal accomplishments, shaping the careers and lives of countless young athletes.
Tsakane Mbewe, who played alongside Machoga, described her as humble and humorous but unstoppable on the court:
“She was the best left-handed player who mesmerised the defenders with her style of play. It was so difficult for them to defend her. She was humble and always liked to joke. After she played for South Africa, she became very involved in the development of netball in South Africa. She will be dearly missed.”
Tsakane Mbewe
Beyond her legendary playing career, Machoga was dedicated to nurturing the sport she loved, mentoring and guiding young players. As she watched a new generation of black players, such as Bongi Msomi and Khanyisa Chawane, take to the international stage, she expressed her pride: “We laid the foundation, and now these players are reaping the rewards. I always tell them to stick to their talent and listen to their coaches. They deserve to be there.”
Her passing has left a profound void, especially for her family. Her younger sister, Basetsana Machoga, shared that Martha had been battling a stomach illness for two months, but her death was unexpected. “We are broken because she was our pillar of strength,” Basetsana said.
Cecilia Molokwane, President of Netball South Africa, also shared her grief: “As a Netball South Africa family, we are heartbroken by the passing of Martha ‘Manzo’ Machoga, a legend whose impact on our sport and community was immeasurable. I will forever cherish the hope and passion she reignited in all of us. Her humility, dedication, and unwavering love for netball will live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, Manzo. You will never be forgotten.”
As Netball South Africa and the broader sporting community bid farewell to a trailblazer, Manzo’s legacy will endure. Her influence on the sport, her fight for equality, and her ability to inspire generations of players will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Manzo. Your magic will continue to inspire us all.
