Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
TOP amateur golfer Tawana Mangoma will have an opportunity to hone his skills while undertaking studies after he secured a place with Bluefield State University in the United States, for the 2026 academic year.
Mangoma a highly-rated young Zimbabwean amateur golfer, known for his strong performances in junior and national events, is from Royal Harare’s Leadbetter Academy.
Leadbetter is known for producing top talented young players and is run by top professional Ryan Cairns.
The teenage golfer has a history of having represented the country at junior and amateur ranks.
Last year Mangoma made his debut appearance at the Toyota Junior Golf World Cup in Japan at just 16.
Mangoma was the youngest member of the local team, which also comprised Keegan Shutt and Tanaka Chatora, that flew the country’s flag at the Chukyo Golf Club in Toyota City (Nagoya), Japan.
Zimbabwe finished 11th out of the 12 teams that took part in the event and Mangoma struggled on the final day where he shot seven – over par to finish the tournament in a three-way tie for 30th place on eight – over par 221.
But the teenager emerged from that tour with invaluable experience.
Mangoma was also part of the team that also qualified the country for the World Cup at the All Africa Junior Golf Team Championship in Johannesburg in April.
It was his first time representing Zimbabwe at an international golf tournament.
Braydon Amm was also part of the team although he did not travel to Japan for the global competition.
He also excelled in events like the US Kids Golf Championship qualifiers and SA junior tournaments and also played in high-profile events like the Zimbabwe Open and the World Amateur Team Championships as part of Team Zimbabwe.
Now Mangoma, a rising star in Zimbabwean golf, who has been making significant strides in his amateur career will have a clear path towards collegiate and potentially professional golf in the United States.
Bongani Ndlovu