BY LOMQHELE NXUMALO
Local Division 2 netball teams Bluebird, Kasambabezi Queens and Mabale competed in the ” Hwange Bubble” tournament on May 2nd. The event was held at the historic Old Ground in Hwange.
The highlight of the day was where Bluebird delivered a powerhouse performance against Mabale, securing a massive 74-26 victory. From the first whistle,Bluebird took control of the court. Their clinical shooting and tight defense left Mabale struggling to keep pace.
MATCH REPORT: Bluebird vs Mabale
1st Quarter 20-05
2nd Quarter 40-13
3rd Quarter 57-17
Final Quarter 74-26
Mrs Maboka the Technical Head for the Matabeleland North Province Zimbabwe Netball Association, attended the games to support the athletes. She emphasized that netball is about building character.
“From sports one develops discipline,” Mrs Maboka stated, as she encouraged more young girls to take up the game.
However, she also spoke about the difficult financial situation the league faces. Currently the teams rely on small donations from kind individuals. ” The sponsors we have are mere individuals like myself who support these young girls,” Mrs Maboka
One of the team coaches echoed these feelings, noting that netball plays an important role in the fight against drug abuse. The coach explained that keeping girls busy on the court protects their future.
“Netball is a place that keeps young girls occupied in an era of fighting substance abuse.” The coach said. ” When these girls are coming from practice or playing a game, they will not get time to engage in these activities because they will already be tired from playing.”
The Hwange teams are looking to grow. Coaches confirmed that their doors are always open for new players. Any young girl interested in developing her talent and joining a disciplined community is welcome to come to the grounds.
