adminTakudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Badminton Federation got a timely boost ahead of the Schools Africa Federation tournament tour as they got some equipment from the Badminton Confederation of Africa on Tuesday.
The handover was done by Badminton South Africa president Larry Keys who hailed the local association for some great work they are doing.
“I am happy that Zimbabwe badminton is trying their best to see the sport back on its feet. They have been participating in Africa for several years and that shows the level of commitment the local federation is showing.
“There was a time when we witnessed a dry period in the country in as far as the sport is concerned but I believe the progress is getting the sport back on its feet again.
“I remember Zimbabwe was well represented in Mauritius last year which is good for the sport. I hope they are taking it from Namibia who have been dormant but are now active especially in youths and schools categories.
“I think if the sport like badminton and table tennis get the maximum support they will prove to be a force to reckon with,” Keys said.
Badminton Association of Zimbabwe (BAZ) president Chipo Zumburani said they are happy with the support they got from the continental mother-body and also from what the Sports Commission and Zimbabwe Olympic Committee have done to attend the briefing.
“We are happy as an association and I believe this is the beginning of big things to come for the sport.
“We have been working hard with schools and so far at least four schools are set to travel to South Africa for Inter-Africa Games.
“We have since developed a plan that focuses on schools and I think it is working in the right direction. We are happy that some army officials, especially from the Airforce of Zimbabwe, have since taken the sport seriously as they include them in their sports competitions. With that kind of support we will be able to see the sport grow.”
Sports Commission director general Charles Nhemachena said they will continue to support the federation and make sure that they get the necessary support.
“We are happy that the sport is coming back on its feet and we pledge our support to them,” said Nhemachena.
Online Reporter