Netball clubs urged to be competitive

The Sunday News

15 December 2012

THE Zimbabwe Netball Association president Leticia Chipandu says the 2012 netball season was a good turning point for the sport as it saw players nurtured from grassroots level.

However, the netball boss was quick to advise local clubs in the local Super League to be more competitive if they are to match Southern Africa’s best in tournaments such as the regional Zone X1 games.

Responding to e-mailed questions, Chipandu, challenged local clubs to work hard in 2013 so that the nation can become a force to reckon with in regional club competitions.

“I am truly satisfied with the way the 2012 Super League was played. All the clubs showed great commitment and I am so overwhelmed by that. I would like to commend all the 12 teams for their dedication, determination and discipline,” said Chipandu.

“But I would like to urge most of the clubs to come up with more competitive teams that will attract sponsors. Like for instance we have had one or two clubs dominating the elite league and when they go for regional games they tend to falter because they square up against stiffer opposition,” added Chipandu.

She went on to say that by having more competitive teams in the league, clubs must set up structures for development that start from the grassroot level.

“The challenge of having more competitive teams in our league can be overcome by having clubs set up structures from grassroot level. There is so much talent out there especially from schools and such talent must be nurtured and developed,” said Chipandu.

The 2012 netball calendar was hugely a successful one that saw Zimbabwe securing the rights to host the 6th edition of the Supreme Council for sport in Africa Zone Six Youth Games in 2014.

The council, represented by its Secretary General Mvuso Mbebe, last week signed a protocol agreement with the Government, which was represented by Education, Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, David Coltart.

It is yet to be decided on whether Bulawayo or Harare will host the 6th edition of the Games as only one city can play host.