Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SPORTS and Recreation Commission acting director-general Peter Mudzimiri has challenged the Under-18 and Under-20 men’s teams to aim for podium performances when they represent the country at International Handball Federation Zone VI Trophy tourney.
The regional tournament is scheduled to run from April 28 to May 3 in Lusaka, Zambia with eight countries expected to participate.
In a speech read on his behalf by provincial Sports and Recreation coordinator for Harare province Cleopatra Mareverwa during a send-off ceremony at Queen Elizabeth School yesterday, Mudzimiri said the teams carry the nation’s ambition to excel.
“As you go out to represent our nation, you carry with you not only our hopes, but our ambition to compete and excel at the regional, continental stages.
“Approach this competition with discipline, resilience and a commitment to high performance.
“Strive for podium finishes and measure yourselves against the best.”
Zimbabwe are the defending champions in the Under-20 category. They won the title for the last two editions held in 2022 and 2024.
As they return to the regional event, they will be out to retain the title.
Zimbabwe’s Under-18s, who placed second in 2022 and 2024, will be hoping for better fortunes.
Mudzimiri urged the young players to embrace the opportunities that come with competing at such events.
“Above all, embrace the opportunity to learn, engage in new cultures, exchange ideas and expose yourselves to new techniques, technologies and styles of play.
“This exposure is essential in shaping well-rounded athletes capable of competing at the highest levels internationally,” said Mudzimiri.
Under-18 captain Adrian Chivi is confident of the work they have put in ahead of the tournament.
“The teams are well-versed and they are well-prepared, ready for the battle, ready for the war, ready to give it our best, to represent our country and give it our best,” said Chivi.
The teams have been in camp at Harare High School since last Friday.
“It was difficult at first, it was high intensity, then it moved to low intensity. But I believe, we have faith in our teams, we trust our teams and we believe that we can bring the best out of ourselves.
“For the previous editions, Under-18 side has been lagging behind. But this time we have a good squad, we have good players and I believe that we can bring the trophy back home.”
Zimbabwe Handball Federation president Taurai Muberekwa said they are grateful to all stakeholders who are supporting the team including the SRC. The teams are scheduled to leave for Zambia on Monday, ahead of the competition that begins on Tuesday.
They are expected to return on May 3.
Under-18 Men:
Kundiso Beretayi, Ivenga Mavuru, Denzel Sandi, EmmanueL Sibanda, Byron Marufu, Bekezela Chiwawa, Shawa Shiri, Adrian Chiri, Bright Mukuzungu, Goodlife Mckenzie, Ntandowenkosi Sapreni, Tendai Hakulandaba, Tadiwa Mupaso, Brandon Ngoma.
Under-20 Men:
Tanatswa Mapolisa, Shawn Chaka, Emmanuel Mahaso, Shawn Mvuto, Learnmore Gomba, Dominick Ndou, Panashe Mutsau, Tafadza Gonye, Davis Nhongonhema, Johane Musamwira, Craig Karimatsenga, Inzwiraishe Mushai, Blessing Botoman, Tichafara Mubvakure.
