Budding netball player Tsholofelo Moote epitomises the idiomatic expression that an apple does not fall far from the tree.

The 23-year-old didn't need to look further than mom Edith for inspiration in pursuing her dream to make it into the Proteas, the women's senior national team.

Moote, who is representing Royal Bafokeng at the Spar National Championships, is among the scores of aspirant netball players who are eager to impress national selectors at the week-long tournament under way at Young Park.

"I started playing at primary school and through the support of my mom, I was able to continue at university level," she told Sowetan.

"My mom has been a big influence because when I see her pictures and medals adorning our home, it drives me to deliver my own achievements. She always reminds me that I play like her. Even now she's been calling to check on how we are doing in PE."

Originally from Dinokana village, outside Mahikeng in North West, Moote found greater chances in organised netball structures when she enrolled at the University of North West, where she is doing her Master's degree in development studies.

Bafokeng might have started on the back foot, winning one of three pool matches but Moote has been one of their shining lights. She is a utility player, providing inspiration at centre or on the wing.

"I play all positions except for shooting, where my coach believes I'm too short. I enjoy controlling the game."

Selected results

Royal Bafokeng 36, Ethekwini 41; Nkangala 37, Nelson Mandela Bay 49; Mangaung 75, Ehlanzeni 17; Bojanala 23, Dr Kenneth Kaunda 103; Johannesburg 58, Zululand 61; Tshwane 82, Gert Sibande 20