adminTHE Zimbabwe netball Gems’ recent African Championships triumph was the icing on the cake for sisters Ndaizivei and Yvonne Madzikangava.
Prior to the team’s larger-than-life victory in Botswana, the pair had already written their own piece of history by becoming the first siblings to share the court in national team colours.
“It feels great to play in the national team with my sister; it’s a wonderful experience,” said 19-year-old Yvonne, who plays wing defence.
Her 24-year-old sister shares the same joy: “It’s a pleasant thing to play with her in the national team. I feel proud because am the one who taught Yvonne the game,” said Ndaizivei, who plays centre or wing attack.
Like most siblings, there is healthy competition between the two.
“I am the better player” declared Ndaizivei before breaking into laughter — something Yvonne didn’t bother to dispute.
“I learnt the game from her and she is always urging me to play my heart out whenever I step onto the court. I enjoy the competition between us, especially when we play for different sides during training sessions. But I must admit Ndai is a better player,” conceded Yvonne.
Ndaizivei says netball has transformed her life.
“Netball can change lives, mine is an example. That I am now working and playing at Nehanda, a Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services team, is a great thing,” said the former Renaissance and Zimpost player.
The sisters credit national team assistant coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki for moulding their game.
“Coach Mutsauki helped me become a better player. I used to play almost everywhere, from defence to shooter, but he noticed I was good in defence and told to me concentrate on that,” said Yvonne.
Ndaizivei urged her national team mates “to maintain the high standard of netball they displayed at the African Championships in Botswana”.
Online Reporter