Hudson Park High School’s first netball team stepped onto the court in style on March 5 in their brand-new kit — designed by former pupil Ave Bacela.
The kit, which features a bold line-art eagle, symbolising strength and determination, was handed over to the newly selected 2025 team.
Sponsored by Puma and C&S Ryan Group, the new uniform was created to celebrate the competitive legacy of Hudson Park netball, a tradition that has been growing as the school’s reputation for excellence across sporting codes deepens.
Bacela, a former first team player and an avid designer and animator said she explored various original designs and colour schemes, ultimately narrowing them down to 15 options before selecting the final one.
She said: “I started by sketching in my notebook and then used a drawing app on my phone — drawing with just my fingers since I didn’t have a stylus or drawing pad. Once complete, I presented the designs to the 2024 team, and with their input, we chose the one that would bring this vision to life,” Bacela said.
Hudson’s head of netball and head coach, Tammy Jonas said: “After fitting on the dresses and walking out for the first time, the players, parents, and Hudson staff were absolutely stunned.
“Even the headmaster jokingly said, ‘I think I’d like to play netball now.’
“This is a full-circle moment — not just for me but for the players as well.
“Having one of our own alumni create a masterpiece for a team she is no longer part of speaks volumes about her passion for the sport and the school.”
Jonas believes the new kit represents more than just a fresh look.
“It symbolises progress, confidence, and the team’s unwavering will to succeed. More than impressing others, it is meant to inspire — to excite younger players and reinforce that success comes from relentless effort and hard work,” she said.
Hudson’s netball captain, Avuyile Hliso, said the team is honoured to be kitted out in a design by a former player they respect and admire.
She said: “I believe that looking your best helps you play your best.
“Wearing this new kit adds another level of motivation for us. It perfectly captures our sense of teamwork and resilience.
“Like the eagle in nature, we strive to soar higher.
“The bold red, white, and navy colours reflect our strength and unity. It’s a true testament to how we embrace obstacles rather than shy away from them.”
For Bacela, the opportunity to design the kit was both exciting and deeply meaningful.
“When I first found out my designs were being considered, I was overjoyed — and honestly, a little humbled.
“Clothing design is my passion, netball is my outlet, and digital art is my creative escape. This project allowed me to merge all three,” she said.
A former goal shooter for Hudson’s first team in grades 11 and 12, Bacela developed a love for netball when a special coach helped her realise her potential.
She went on to make the provincial Eastern Cape team for three consecutive years.
“I wanted our kit to stand out — to be as impressive, if not better, than the uniforms of high-performing teams like SA and England.
“If I had to choose my favourite part of the kit, it would be the line work — the way the lines glide across the dress while maintaining a sleek, clean look.
“And, of course, the eagle — it’s unlike any previous Hudson design, which makes it even more special,” Bacela said.
With the 2025 netball team now donning a kit designed by one of their own, the legacy of Hudson’s netball excellence continues — not just through skill on the court, but through creativity, passion, and school spirit.
