Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
Highlanders Rugby Club is revelling in a historic breakthrough after three of its players were named in the Zimbabwe senior women’s national rugby team — a momentous achievement for both the club and the Southern Region.
The trailblazing trio of Simphiwe Gumbo, Memory Moyo and Mbalenhle Mzizi has been drafted into the Lady Sables squad that is competing at the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Côte d’Ivoire. The continental tournament kicked off on Wednesday, with the Lady Sables set to launch their campaign today against the hosts.
For Highlanders Rugby Club, affectionately known as the Black and White Army, the call-ups represent a powerful affirmation of their steady rise and renewed ambition.
Club chairperson, Thulani “Dubula” Tabulawa, couldn’t hide his pride as he reflected on what the moment means for a team long regarded as a development side.
“As a club, we are so excited to receive this kind of recognition after a very long time,” said Tabulawa.
“We’ve always believed our players are good enough to make the national team. This was an opportunity to prove that the Southern Region, too, has talent that can compete with the best in the country. These girls grabbed that opportunity — and we are immensely proud.”
Tabulawa described the milestone as a beacon of inspiration, not just for the trio but for every aspiring female player within the Highlanders system.
“It’s going to inspire others in the club. When given a chance, they too can show that they’re more than just promising talent — they’re national team material,” he said.
“People have often looked at Highlanders Rugby as just a development club, but we’re moving beyond that. We are producing players who can stand toe-to-toe with the so-called big clubs — and these girls are proof.”
The Lady Sables’ selection panel’s recognition of Highlanders players, Tabulawa said, validates the club’s years of effort and signals a new era of belief and ambition.
“Being viewed only as a development side has, in many ways, stifled our growth. But these girls have now shown that we’re ready to stand with the best. This achievement challenges that perception.”
Tabulawa was quick to share the credit, highlighting the combined efforts of the coaching staff, technical team, committee members and club supporters — all of whom worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the players could pursue their dreams.
“Credit goes to our coaches for moulding these girls into national material. The technical team, the committee and everyone who’s helped make it easier for them to prepare and compete — we thank them all,” he said.
“We also extend our gratitude to our supporters and sponsors. Their contributions — financial and otherwise — made this possible. And not forgetting the legends of the club, always on the ground, fundraising to make sure our players have the right kit and resources to play.”
As the Lady Sables gear up for their opening clash against Côte d’Ivoire today, all eyes back home will be on the Highlanders trio — three young women who have already made their club proud and now carry the hopes of a nation.
After today’s encounter, Zimbabwe will take on Tunisia on Tuesday and Uganda next Saturday in what promises to be a fiercely contested campaign.
— @brandon_malvin
