adminJeffrey Murimbechi Sports Correspondent
MBARE Academy Under-18 Sevens side is set for South Africa to take part in the juniors’ version of the Middelburg Sevens Tournament in the Mpumalanga Province next month. Coach Victor “Zuda” Pekani is optimistic that his spirited young charges will represent the academy well. So far, Mbare Academy has produced the likes of Stephen Hunduza, Manase Siita and Njabulo Ndlovu who all have national team caps.
He believes the boys have had ample time to prepare for the tournament and their main aim is to bring the trophy to Zimbabwe.
“I am happy with the way things have been going and we have had enough time to prepare and still have enough time to polish up our game before we go to South Africa,” said Pekani.
“My boys have what it takes to get the trophy and that’s what we are all working on to be the best side in that tournament.
“Mbare has produced many players and I think we can do it,” said the coach.
Last year Zimbabwe Under-16s represented the country in the same tournament but this year the Under-18s are going under the Mbare Academy tag.
Six players have been retained from last year’s squad.
Twelve players will be travelling for the tournament and the squad will be trimmed down by the end of the month.
“We draw our inspiration from the Blitzbokke. Our players are really small but very fast so our style of rugby is similar to that of our ‘Tag’ rugby players, very similar to the game ‘Chisveru’ where we are very fluid with the ball and avoid contact that will slow us down when we attack,” said Pekani.
The Provisional Squad:
Shingirai Katsvere, Romeo Mandava, Moses Matenga, Pride Nyameni, Richard Majuru, Tinashe Chibhondo, Brighton Chinyanya, Munashe Kamunda, Marshal Mandizvidza, James Vambe, Brandon Chari, Moses Kuzanga, Victor Mushayahama, Givemore Muchenje, Xavier Mafunga, Wilfred Office, Shingai nhindi, Loveridge Muderere, Tapiwa Malenga, Takudzwa Francisco, Tendai Dhliwayo and tafadzwa Mawarire.
Coach: Victor “Zuda” Pekani
Manager: Milton Rahkeni
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