By Abba Amoorh
Born and raised in Phalaborwa, Blessing M. Ngobeni is pursuing a BA Honours in Xitsonga at the University of Limpopo. But beyond the classroom, he’s found his rhythm on the netball court as a male umpire in a female-dominated sport.
His love for sport began early, trying everything from football to athletics. “Netball was always in me,” he says. “But the stigma of being a guy in netball pushed me away for a while.” In 2017, that passion was reignited and he’s never looked back.
His journey started with imagination. “As a kid, I’d play using bottle caps as players,” he laughs. Years later, he officially joined at district level and progressed to the provincial team. “That’s when I truly fell in love with umpiring.”
In 2019, Blessing officiated his most memorable game, the SA Under-19 Netball Championship final between Tshwane and Dr KK in Cape Town. “It was fast-paced and intense. Being trusted with a national final gave me so much confidence.”
Breaking stereotypes, one match at a time. Photo Supplied
Being a male in netball hasn’t been easy. “There’s stigma and discrimination, but my family, my netball community, and my faith in God keep me grounded,” he says.
At UL, he praises the strong netball culture. “Travelling is the only life I know,” he smiles. “UL gives us access to competitive leagues and constant support it feels like home.”
Netball has helped him beyond the court. “If I’m not studying, I’m officiating. Sport keeps me balanced, structured, and focused.”
For young men afraid to break moulds, he shares words of advice, “No one will do what you want to do if you don’t do it yourself. It’s okay to be different. Just do it and enjoy the music, even if you don’t like every song.”
Blessing hopes to keep rising in netball, continue his studies, and use his journey to inspire others to lead with courage, passion, and purpose.
