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Khumbulani Mfisha
SAKUBVA High One was a hive of activity this week when the school hosted the first ever international coaching clinic for baseball in Manicaland.The coaching clinic started on Monday and came to an end on Wednesday.
Renowned American baseball coach, based in Texas, Bart Bratcher conducted the clinic.
In an interview, the American based coach, said the coaching sessions would be held in six provinces across the country.
He said the initiative was aimed at improving the sport of baseball in Zimbabwe.
“I have been in coaching for 42 years, working with different high schools and clubs in Texas and I have also played the game for Baylor University, so I have great knowledge about the game.
“It is my pleasure to work with different baseball players and coaches from various schools and clubs around the country.
“The participants are so keen to learn more and to enhance their experience. We are working with Zimbabwe Baseball Association to improve the sport in the country and to come up with a robust national team.
“As I am moving from province to province, I am excited about the attendance we are registering in our sessions as it shows that people are enjoying the sport,” he said.
Manicaland baseball co-ordinator, Shielah Chikowi, hailed the initiative to bring Bratcher to Mutare for a coaching clinic saying it would go a long way in improving baseball in the country.
“It is a great honour to work with coach of Bratcher’s calibre. He is so experienced and approachable. There is no doubt that participants learnt a lot from him.
“We consider this event as a historic achievement in Manicaland’s baseball fraternity. Participants were drawn from schools such as Sakubva One High, Dangamvura High, Mutare Boys’ High and Sakubva Primary among others.
“This event will also help us in preparing for the upcoming Dream Cup Tournament to be played here in Manicaland in December,” said Chikowi.
Online Reporter