Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Blessed Moyo, Sports Reporter
THE country’s tennis sensation, 14-year-old Akeelah Khanye will take part in a prestigious International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournament in Maputo, Mozambique from 10 to 16 February.
The St Columba’s High School pupil will spend two weeks competing against the world’s top junior players and she is confident of improving her ranking.
With a number of local and international titles under her belt, Akeelah has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court.
Her remarkable journey to tennis stardom began at a tender age of eight with her parents and coaches nurturing her talent.
Akeelah has represented the country in various continental tournaments winning medals and accolades along the way.
Last year she climbed the ranks of the Confederation of African Tennis, reaching number 12.
She won gold for Zimbabwe in the Southern African Junior Championships team in 2022, in Maputo, Mozambique as an Under-12.
Speaking to the Zimpapers Sports hub, Akeelah said she is ready and confident ahead of the tournament.
“I have been training hard and I’m excited to showcase my skills on the international stage,” she said, with her sights set on bringing home another major trophy if she gets a good draw and stays injury free.
She wants to do her family, club, school and country proud.
The St Columba’s High School beams with pride as Akeelah shines and they are basking in the glory of their tennis star.
In an interview with the Zimpapers Sports hub the school’s deputy head, Qhubabona Nkomo said: “We are thrilled that Akeelah is starting the year on a high note, putting herself and our school on the map.”
Nkomo praised Akeelah for pioneering a global sporting activity at the school.
The school has been home to brilliant footballers like Tanny Banda, Lazarus Mushambadope and Nqobizitha Maenzanise and had a brilliant volleyball team that dominated schools nationally with the likes of Trinos Mutsvanga, Sere Chirenje, Jabulani Nyabadza and Chris Manyange.
“Her achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication. We are proud to have her as part of our school community,” she said with a chuckle.
Nkomo revealed that the school is considering rewarding Akeelah with a scholarship in recognition of her outstanding achievements.
To ensure that Akeelah maintains her academic excellence while abroad, the school has pledged to provide her with essential notes, enabling her to keep up with her studies during her time away.
“We want to support her in every way possible and we are committed to helping her balance her academic and sporting pursuits. We have no doubt that she will continue to make us proud,” said Nkomo.
As the girl prepares to participate in the ITF tournament her school is rallying behind her, celebrating her achievement and promising to support her in every step of the way.
St Columba’s High School’s sports director, Philani Khabo said: “She is a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance and a love for the sport. We are honoured to have played a role in her development as a tennis player and we look forward to seeing her continue to soar to new heights,” he said.
Online Reporter