Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe men’s side — the Golden Flyers — are set to host Kenya in their first-ever Netball Test Series that could turn the face of this version of the national sport.
The breakthrough series is scheduled for Harare’s City Sports Centre from June 30 to July 4 and it will serve as part of their preparations for the African Championships and the inaugural Men’s Netball World Cup.
World Netball, however, is yet to announce dates for the first edition of the Men’s World Cup. The global netball body have also decided to shift the Netball World Cup to a biennial format, departing from the previous three-year cycle. As Zimbabwe, currently ranked second in the region, brace for the global contest, the Test Series provides a vital stage for the team to start building.
Golden Flyers team manager Albert Murehwa notes that the series will also help them enhance their skills and strategies in preparation for the global event.
He said the series will also play a pivotal role in developing a competitive male netball team in Zimbabwe.
“This is our first test series since the coming of male netball in Zimbabwe and it comes at a critical time when the men’s world contest is just being introduced,” he said.
“It will be crucial for skills enhancement for both teams and to allow players to thrive under pressure and improve in teamwork as we eye the bigger stage.” The Golden Flyers regrouped last week at Prince Edward High School with 25 players battling for a spot on the eventual 14-member squad. These matches also serve as essential platforms for performance evaluation, enabling coaches to assemble a competitive team.
Murehwa said the competitions will also help coaches pinpoint areas needing improvement while testing strategies against fellow competitive rivals. Further, competing on an international stage not only enhances visibility for the sport, which is largely perceived as feminine but also inspires and engages communities.
“We are challenging the perception that netball is exclusively a female sport,” he said.
“The Golden Flyers are committed to raise awareness about male participation in netball and seek support across sectors, much like the movement seen in women’s football.
“Our long-term goal is to qualify for the Netball World Cup.
“Based on history, our team can make it to the World Cup and elevate Zimbabwe’s netball profile and inspire future generations.”
Despite their colourful profile, the Golden Flyers still lack sponsorship.
Former Gems shooter Joice Takaidza has been their benefactor for two years while captain Felisitus Kwangwa also played a role for the team financially. For their World Cup dream to come true, they will need to be resourced.
“We are excited that this time, the Zimbabwe Netball Association has secured the City Sports Centre as the official venue for our matches.
“Now the headache is on securing finances for kits, food, refreshments and other necessities. “We want the team to just focus on intensive technical training and team-building activities to ensure peak performance so that we are well-positioned for success in the upcoming Netball Africa Championship and beyond,” said Murehwa.
