As part of Women's Month celebrations, KwaZulu-Natal Netball shines a spotlight on on of the province's fasted -rising stars Lonwabo Khumalo. The talented goalkeeper/goal defender who plays for Pongolo Mighty Queens in the KZN Netball Super League and Kingdom Queens has become one of the most exciting young defenders in South African netball.
Hailing from rural town Dundee, Lonwabo's journey is a powerful reminder that talent , determination and hard work can open doors to biggest stages. She was first spotted at Schools netball tournament where her outstanding performances earned her invitation to joining Pongola Might Queens. Her rise has been nothing short if remarkable . In 2024, the talented Zululand defender was named U21 Defender of the Tournament at the Spar National Championships. She later earned a selection in the U21 SPAR Baby Proteas squad that competed in the 2025 Telkom Netball League , further establishing herself as one of the county's brightest young defensive prospect.
After an outstanding 2026 Telkom Netball League Division 2 campaign , where she was named Player of the Match in the final , KZN Netball caught up with Lonwabo to reflect on her journey , her success, and her dreams in the future.
For those who don't know you, who is Lonwabo Khumalo on and off the field? On court I'm the fighter. I'm loud, I'm competitive and I live for the contest. I hate giving up an easy goal. Off court I'm pretty chilled and family-focused. I'm from Dundee, I love spending time with my people, praying, and laughing with friends. Netball is my passion but my heart is in my community.
How did your netball journey begin, and what inspired you to become a defender? Lonwabo: I started playing at Emphathe Combined School in Dundee just to keep busy after class. The coach put me at defense because I'm tall and I'm not scared of contact. I fell in love with it, shutting down attacks feels like solving a puzzle. Watching Phumza Maweni and Karla Pretorius growing up also made me want to that wall for my team.
You had an outstanding Telkom Netball League campaign. What do you think was the key to your success? Lonwabo: Consistency and trust, This year I focused on my fitness, my footwork, and reading the game earlier. But the biggest key was my teammates. At Kingdom Queens and Might Queens the midcourt fed me so much ball and we communicated non-stop. When the unit works, the defenders looks good.
As GK/GD what do you enjoy the most about playing in defense, and which one do you prefer? Lonwabo: I love the battle. The one on ones, the intercepts, the rebounds thats where games are won. I enjoy goalkeeper because it's pure pressure and you can change a game with one turnover. But I prefer goal defense because I get to work across the court close down space and set up the attack.
Which match during the TNL stands out the most for you and why? Lonwabo: Definitely the Division 2 final. Even though we narrowly missed the tittle with Queens , the intensity was unreal. To be named Player of the match in that game means a lot to me because I left everything on court.
You were named Player of the Match in the final. What did that recognition mean to you ? Lonwabo: It meant everything. It's for Pongola , for my coaches, and for every young girl watching back home. It told me that hard work in a small town can be seen on a national stage.
How has playing for both Pongola Mighty Queens and Kingdom Queens helped your development as a player? Lonwabo: Pongola grounded me and taught me discipline and pride in where I come from. Kingdom Queens pushed me at a higher level, faster play , new systems. Switching between them me more adaptable and mentally tough.
Every defender studies shooters closely. How do you prepare before facing top attacking players? Lonwabo: I watch footage if I can, and I talk to my wing defender and center about their favourite moves. In warm-ups test their timing. During the game I'm watching their feet and their eyes.
Who has the biggest influence on your netball career? Lonwabo: My first coach Khayelihle Hlongwane and my mom. My coach believed in me when I was still raw. My mom drove me to trainings and tournaments even when money was tight. And the Protea defenders I grew up watching.
What challenged have you faced on your journey, and how did you overcome them? Lonwabo: Money, transport, and visibility. Coming from a rural area, getting to trials and affording gear was hard. I overcame it with community support and by never missing a chance to prove myself. I trained with what I had.
What are your personal goals for the next season? Lonwabo: Make Division 1 with Kingdom Queens, get into SPAR Proteas training squad, and win TNL medal. I also want to cut down penalties and increase my intercepts.
Is wearing the Spar Proteas jersey one of your dreams, and what steps are taking to achieve it? Lonwabo: 100%. I'm working on strength , speed and game IQ. I'm studying top international defenders and asking for feedback after every TNL game. I'm staying ready.
What advice would you advice to young girls in rural areas who dream of playing netball at the highest level: Lonwabo: Don't let your zip code decide your future. Work hard where you are. Use what you have. Show up, be coachable, and be brace enough to put yourself forward for trials.
How important has the support from your family , coaches, teammates, and community been throughout your netball journey? Lonwabo: Its been everything.my family kept me going. My coaches pushed me. My teammates became sisters. And Pongola always shows up for me.
Finally, what message would you like to share with everyone what has supported you throughout you throughout your career? Lonwabo: Ngiyabonga kakhulu. Thank you so much for believing in a girl from Dundee. This journey is ours. I promise to keep working and keep making you proud.
As Women's month continues, Lonwabo Khumalo's story serves as an inspiration to young girls across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. From humble beginnings in Dundee to shining in national stage, she continues to prove dedication.