Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda, Online Reporter
THE National Association of Primary School Heads (Naph) has announced that it will impose hefty fines on schools found guilt of age cheating during the Matabeleland North provincial competitions which start today in Victoria Falls.
Age cheating is rife at schools’ tournaments in the country and this unprofessional conduct is putting a dent on sport development.
At both primary and secondary school level, athletes are forced by their teachers and coaches to either up or reduce ages in a bid to influence performance outcomes.
There have been calls to make age cheating a crime and headmasters have blamed the lack of technology as the main reason behind age-cheating.
Numerous campaigns that denounce age cheating seem to fall on deaf ears and this has forced sporting associations to resort to penalties.
Naph in Matabeleland North has resolved to fine US$300 any school found guilt of age cheating
The association secretary-general, Nelson Masukume said this will be effected starting at the province’s ball games, which start today in Victoria Falls.
“As school headmasters in Matabeleland North, through our executives, there are concerns on the issue of age cheating that has really disturbed our sport. We are discouraging age cheating in our competitions hence the decision to fine culprits,” said Masukme.
School coaches have welcomed the move saying that it is a step in the right direction.
Meanwhile, Matabeleland North district teams have arrived in Victoria Falls ahead of the start of the games today.
Online Reporter