Be disciplined, athletes urged

Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
THE National Association of Secondary Schools Heads (Nash) Matabeleland North athletics team has been told to be disciplined and exemplary at the inter-provincial track and field competition that starts at Hillcrest College in Mutare this morning.

Deputy provincial education director responsible for secondary schools Jabulani Mpofu told a send-off ceremony at George Silundika High School where the team had been camped for about a week that discipline was the prerequisite for an athlete’s success.

“I urge you boys and girls to be exemplary throughout the competition and make us proud,” said Mpofu.

Matabeleland North has struggled to make an impact at the annual event in previous years and Mpofu urged athletes to double their efforts this year, but warned against temptations to cheat.

“Go there and compete to the best of your sporting ability. Let’s not be cheats but instead let’s outclass those who will try to cheat. Don’t be intimidated at all, even if you are paired against a clearly older athlete, just aim to do your best,” Mpofu said.

The squad’s coaching staff is headed by former Highlanders’ striker Abraham Mbaiwa, who is now a teacher at Mabhikwa High School in Lupane district.

The team left yesterday morning and was expected to arrive in Mutare last night ahead of the start of the two-day competition.

The province’s medal chances are firmly pinned on Fatima High School pupil Dickson Kapandura, who scooped five gold medals in the inter-district competitions held at the same school earlier this month.