Region A U15 selection marks next step for Curro Clayville netball player
01 April 2026Selection to the Region A U15 Netball Team has opened a new chapter for Keabetswe Olivia Florence Makwe, whose steady rise in the sport continues to gain attention.
Keabetswe describes her introduction to netball as unexpected. Initially focused solely on academics, she had no interest in sports until she watched her friends play netball. Inspired by their enthusiasm, she joined a local netball initiative in Clayville with little knowledge or experience.
‘With no direction, knowledge or motivation, I joined just wanting to try,’ Keabetswe says. ‘Today, I am here sharing my story all because of their support and belief.’
Recognition on court
Her performances began to stand out early. One of her first milestones came when she was named Overall Best Player at a combined netball and soccer tournament hosted by her club.
At school level, she continued to deliver consistent results, earning multiple certificates as Overall Best Shooter in the U15 division.
That form has carried into her current role in the U17 school team, where she continues to develop her game.
‘He believed in me from the start’
Keabetswe credits her growth at Curro Clayville to the influence of her coach, Thabane Moerane.
‘He is one of the most passionate and talented coaches I have ever had,’ she says. ‘He believed in me from the day I stepped on court and never stopped. His skills, passion and support shaped me into the confident netball player I am today.’
Chasing bigger stages
Her ambitions have grown alongside her performances. Keabetswe now sets her sights on representing South Africa on international courts.
‘I vision myself playing in Australia representing my country and making myself proud,’ she says, referencing one of the sport’s leading global stages.
She also draws inspiration from Nonsikelelo Mazibuko, a former Gauteng Jaguars and Golden Fireballs goal shooter, whose career reflects the level she hopes to reach.
Message to others
Keabetswe’s advice to younger players reflects her own path.
‘Never compare your journey to someone else’s because we are all destined for different things,’ she says. ‘Keep clapping for others until it’s your turn. Don’t forget to pray, work hard, persevere and stay focused even when it seems impossible.’