derick.khumaloVeronica Gwaze in Nairobi, Kenya
ZIMBABWE’S Gems have caught the eye of their new technical advisor Fred Mugerwa, who believes the youthful side has what it takes to shake up the African netball pecking order.
Mugerwa, the Ugandan tactician credited with transforming the She Cranes into a continental powerhouse, says he has been impressed by how quickly the Gems have embraced his possession-based philosophy ahead of the 2027 Netball World Cup qualifiers in Nairobi.
The veteran coach spent two weeks in camp in Harare before returning to Uganda, then linked up with the team in Kenya as preparations entered the final stretch.
The qualifiers, which double as the Africa Cup, get underway on Saturday and run until September 26, bringing together 10 African nations alongside the Men’s Africa Cup.
Zimbabwe open their campaign against Botswana at 2PM.
Mugerwa has retained the Gems’ traditional style while demanding greater patience and discipline in possession.
“As a coach I believe in holding on to the ball instead of rushing it forward. This is the philosophy that has taken my teams thus far,” he said.
“We would rather take longer to reach the shooting circle so that we get there safely than rush the passes and commit errors or get intercepted.”
His message appears to have landed quickly, with Mugerwa praising the Gems’ ability to absorb the new demands despite limited preparation time.
“Zimbabwe have got talent and massive potential. As of now I am satisfied with how they adjusted quickly to what we have taught them. They have got the pedigree to be a real force in Africa,” he said.
ZINA recently opened the door for a significant number of locally based youngsters to fight for places in the senior side, and Mugerwa believes their hunger could prove crucial.
However, he warned that technical ability alone will not be enough. “Game situation also needs mental strength, so this tournament will be a real test,” he said.
Mugerwa also wants the Gems to ditch the underdog mentality.
“The team is not as bad as people think,” he said.
“Let many be warned that Zimbabwe are not underdogs. I think this is something that even the Gems themselves should understand and also develop self-belief.” With qualification for the World Cup the ultimate prize, Mugerwa believes Zimbabwe can surprise their continental rivals.
“We want to make the country proud and to bring a lot of patriotism into what the players do,” he said.
“The Gems are representing the country and we want them to showcase the talent that is in Zimbabwe. We are putting our heart and soul in this journey and we do everything for the badge.”
Online Reporter