Hockey teams seek support

Sports Reporter

ZIMBABWE’S Under-16 and Under-18 hockey teams have been battling to raise funds for their Namibian tour but remain optimistic they will be part of the outdoor test series at the Windhoek High School Davin Astro from July 6 to 8.

The two girls’ teams are scheduled to depart for Windhoek on Wednesday, but their coaches will have to make do without some of their key players owing to financial constraints.

Although some players found sponsorship through the Hockey Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ)’s “Sponsor A Player, Support A Team” initiative from private individuals and corporates, others have pulled out after failing to raise the requisite funds.

Team manager Carla Jones is naturally worried. “We had a few players who pulled out due to finances, but we do not anticipate it affecting the team.

“Some players chose not to stand . . . because of academics and exams,” Jones said.

The head coach for the Girls Under-16, Kudzai Nyabezi, said despite the difficulties to get everyone together, preparations had been satisfactory.

“We managed to have about six hours of training as a team, which helped with team bonding. Constant check of the players is ongoing and looking good.

“Training has been going on well; mostly polishing on team building and fitness,” Nyabezi said.

“Getting everyone to train together every weekend has been impossible since all the players are from across the globe.

“Since this period is for mid-year examinations, we face the challenge of not having them in camp again before travelling.”

Similarly, the Girls Under-18 coach, Tendayi Maredza, said the tournament is vital for the team as it is part of preparations for upcoming international assignments.

“Any international exposure is great for the juniors as it helps us to prepare for the senior tournaments — the Under-21 tournaments and the Junior Olympics — which are coming up soon.

“So, these games give more experience and exposure for the young players, as well as the coaches,” he said.

The coaches expect their teams to excel at the Namibia series.

“Past competitions with Namibia were never an easy outing.

“The girls have played Namibia before at junior level in 2017, and the boys played in 2018, and we had some good results, though it won’t be the same this year,” Maredza said.