adminFungai Munyoro
MANICALAND Province has been awarded an opportunity to host the inter-provincial volleyball tournament for the first time. The tournament is pencilled from July 4 to 5 at Mutare Polytechnic. The inter-provincial tournament will bring the country’s 10 provinces together and each province will be represented by two teams (one for men and one for ladies).
Representatives from Manicaland last participated in this competition two years ago and performed badly, but now teams from the eastern border province will be hoping to make good use of home advantage this year.
Last year’s winners, Harare Province have been dominating this competition and have to face equally competitive side Bulawayo in order to retain the trophy. In an interview, Zimbabwe Volleyball Association vice president, Chris Chivinge said preparations for the tournament were underway.
“Preparations are going on well. All the provinces are geared up for this tournament. It is also part of talent identification as the cream of the provinces will be there. It is not only for players, but we have to identify coaches as well. We believe if a coach can coach a provincial team, he can also coach the national team. We will be also assessing the referees. We want to raise the standards of volleyball in this country,” he said.
Manicaland Volleyball Association chairman, Farai Mboto, urged people of Manicaland to come in their numbers and rally behind the province’s representatives.
“We urge all the people to come in their numbers and support us. This is something to celebrate about and this will give volleyball mileage in terms of marketing. Our players will have exposure since many competitions are only held in the capital,” he said.
Online Reporter