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Valerie Mpundu, Youth Interactive Writer
Chikangwe High School-based volleyball student Rutendo Mangezi has set personal standards for herself as a volleyball athlete.
The 14-year-old has proved the sky is the limit besides playing the sport in a rural setup, where somehow the sport is not that much recognised.
Rutendo who plays for Karoi Spikers, feels motivated and inspired to continue as she soars to greater heights despite being one of the youngest in her club.
In an interview, the teenager took us through her journey in the sport, highlighting the significance of prioritising her academic side as well.
“I have no challenges at all maintaining a levelled playing field,” she said.
“School has to come first above everything else. Education is the key to success. We start school at 0700hrs and finish at 1320hrs. This in a way gives me time to train for up to 1600hrs.”
Rutendo said her favourite subject is mathematics and that has helped her in the game.
“I have never had any challenges as the routine has somehow programmed me. I have a schedule I adhere to with guidance from my parents and teachers,” she said.
The talented volleyball player boldly appreciates her height as a force to reckon with.
She said that it helps her to be strategically positioned during play.
“I am tall, can pass, spike and set the ball. In volleyball one has to showcase their skill. However, this is a sport not so famous in rural areas.
“My dream is to make my school famous through such a discipline.
“I want to put my school on the map and have it recognised for such talent,” she said.
Rutendo vividly captured her heaviest defeat, falling out in the group stages at Nemakonde High School and having her dreams entirely crushed.
“It was quite a heavy defeat and humiliating at the same time. I was gutted. We did not win against any team and that took a toll on me. I felt torn,” she said.
She has managed to travel within and beyond Hurungwe District, exposure she acknowledges has broadened her horizons as an athlete due to the experience and knowledge gained.
Not only is she athletically gifted, Rutendo wears her heart on her sleeve as far as her community is concerned – yearning for its success through sport.
“I wish that in my community sporting disciplines are encouraged and used as a way to uplift the youth.
“We should have a developed mindset that can sustain us.
“With that being said, motivation becomes key and we will enrich ourselves by ploughing back and making history through sport. Change in the community starts with us.”
Online Reporter