20/08/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BuThTMaxm/
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
18 August 2026
South African Schools’ Netball (SASN) is concerned about the inappropriate, insulting, and hurtful allegations made on social media against the organisation, its members, and Executive Committee.
It’s unfortunate that people sometimes hide behind anonymous profiles when they’re unhappy or dissatisfied. We understand that there’s often a story behind such comments. When people are disappointed, their emotions can run high.
However, there’s a difference between being unhappy and humiliating others, making defamatory accusations, or damaging their reputation. SASN won’t respond in the same way.
We know the circumstances behind some articles and comments. We could reveal information that would provide a different perspective, but we won’t do so.
This is because children and families are involved, and confidentiality is important to us. We don’t believe that a person’s dignity should be sacrificed to protect our reputation. We believe that adults should handle disappointment with dignity.
We can’t and won’t respond to every allegation with a counter-allegation. We choose not to engage in the mud.
However, a few negative experiences don’t change the reality of the hundreds of players who have previously and are still grateful for opportunities granted in fairness.
We remind our community of the following:
- Each of us contributes to harmony or conflict every day.
- Saying extremely offensive things about others behind a screen name may seem anonymous, but it doesn’t change the nature of our words.
- We must ask ourselves if our previous statement was fair, honest, and necessary.
The SASN avoids negativity on social media and instead:
- Communicates
- Listens
- Addresses problems
- Seeks solutions
- Finds common ground
For genuine grievances, parents are invited to discuss them through appropriate channels. Evidence of wrongdoing is investigated, and mistakes are corrected.
Criticism and character assassination are not the same, and freedom of opinion doesn’t mean demeaning others.
The SASN won’t compromise its values for social media arguments.
Our children observe adult conflict handling, so the SASN sets an example for its players.
Dignity, truth, and conversation are prioritised over revenge, sensationalism, and conflict.
The SASN remains steadfast, even in difficult times.
Ms Di Woolley
(President SASN)
