Netball Division Two League games kick off

THE Bulawayo Province Division Two Netball League started with 10 matches being played last weekend.

The league, now in its second year, promises fireworks and will continue to be a platform to showcase the city’s budding talents.

It got off to a flying start last year with the Independence Tournament, which was won by ZRP Bulawayo, with How Mine finishing as runners-up.
There was the Heroes Tournament, which was also won by ZRP Bulawayo.

“We never had a Division Two League before, so no teams have been promoted to higher leagues for now,” said Zimbabwe Netball Association (Zina) Bulawayo Province vice-chairperson Lungile Msimanga.

Among the aims of the league is to help keep young girls away from social ills through sport.

“Our mission is to ensure the girl child stays off the streets, while taking netball to higher levels in an effort to make it a professional sport. Things are done systematically and the girls have identification cards and are registered after the teams have been affiliated,” said Msimanga.

Zina introduced Division Two in a 2021 plan which had been in motion before sporting activities were stopped due to Covid-19, and it was only revived last year.

“I urge other women to support and uplift the girls in making a difference through sports. The girls should focus on their goals and education so that they can have a better tomorrow,” said Msimanga.

Fiona Ncube, the Makopo Netball Club player-coach, said they are targeting a top three finish this season.

“As a coach, I’m expecting a competitive game and hope that our players are noticed in the play-offs for the Zimbabwe Under-21 and Under-15 squads, as we have players of all age groups. Our main challenge is that we do not have a sponsor to meet our travelling expenses and other necessities,” said Ncube.

Maphisa, Nedbank, Sobukhazi and ZRP Bulawayo did not compete due to logistical issues last weekend.

They will, however, fulfil their games this coming weekend.

Week One Results
Majoni 27 -16 Thandanani, Sovereign 9-75 Eleven Stars, Makopo 35- 40 Swallows, Flying Eagles 27-37 Imbizo, Mganwini 27-39 Lethal Angels