By Vuyiswa Mabila
MBABANE – At just 34, Ndukwenhle Masangane has become a household name in Eswatini’s sports scene, dominating both volleyball and netball with his exceptional skills and dedication.
Ndukwenhle was born and raised in Eswatini in 1992. He is currently residing at Mbikwakhe and his journey in sports began at Mbekelweni Lutheran High School, where he started playing volleyball at the age of 10. His talent and dedication quickly earned him a spot on the under-16 national team, where he won a silver medal against South Africa.
According to Masangane, volleyball started when he used to bring his coinsi’s outfit at her school then he started imitating it. ” Volleyball started when I used yo bring outfit for my cousin. I end up playing one on one with Sibusiso Nxumalo who taught me the digging and vollying, not knowing that I was imitating myself.” Explained Masangane.
Over the years, Masangane has played for several top teams in Eswatini, including Manzini Super Sticker volleyball team, Power House, the Mighty Bob Cats, and currently, the Correctional Sunrise volleyball team. His impressive skills on the court have earned him numerous accolades, including the Best Attacker award at the Lady’s Smith Mnambithi end-of-year tournament in South Africa and the Best Attacker award in Zone 6 club against Lesotho in 2023.
However, volleyball is not the only sport where Masangane has made a name for himself. In 2012, he was introduced to netball by Abigail Dlamini, and he quickly became an integral part of the Correctional Lightning netball team. Initially playing as a defender, Masangane has since gained exposure to different styles by playing in tournaments outside of Eswatini. His hard work and dedication paid off in 2017 when he won the Best Defender award.
According to Masangane, he was introduced to netball by Abigail Dlamini who got them a Kwazulu Natal coache Siphelele Mapendane Mthembu who motivated them. “I knew that netball was a lady’s sport, so seeing how motivated our coaches was, then I gave it a try. Also playing tournaments outside of the country gained me so much exposure to different netball styles which helped me a lit with my games.” He explained.
He further explained that the reason why he was able to play both sports was his dedication and passion to excel in every way possible. “It’s all about dedication, being open to new challenges, and making sacrifices. “I’m able to balance both sports because of my passion and willingness to make sacrifices,” he says.
Masangane’s story is an inspiration to young athletes who aspire to excel in multiple sports. His achievements demonstrate that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for sports, it’s possible to succeed in multiple disciplines. As he continues to represent Eswatini in both volleyball and netball, Masangane is an excellent role model for the next generation of athletes.
