Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
NATIONAL handball champions Ajax are reeling from financial hardships, with their executive having announced they want to forge ties with the business community in their bid to find support as the team wants to compete in as many tournaments this year.
The Bulawayo-based club men’s team was named as the best team in the African Union Sports Council Region 5, Zone VI rankings in 2023.
They have won the national league a record eight times.
Their proposal for a partnership with businesses comes in the wake of a failed trip to take part at the World Club Championships in Cape Town, South Africa.
In most of their tours, Ajax players have funded themselves. The club’s chairman Collen Nkomo said this year they want to work hard at networking with captains of industry so that they get the much needed financial assistance.
“We want to be champions again this year and go on to represent the country on the international stage. No matter what, this year we want to turnaround our financial situation and fulfil international tournaments obligations. In order to do that, we have to create synergies with the business sector.
“We are a community club, so it is hard to source funds. Of all the challenges we have, the biggest is lack of money. We would appreciate even if we get a well-wisher to help us with travel logistics. It is so sad and embarrassing that national champions could not participate at the World Club Championships that started on January 9 in South Africa,” said Nkomo.
Despite being bankrupt, Ajax are proud of their achievements and they want to continue doing well.
The team’s vice-chairperson Phethangani Nyoni said they are determined to maintain their dominance locally and regionally.
“As Ajax we have put Zimbabwe on the map. Our players are rated highly and that is a good. The club executive and the players are committed to achieve more.”
In 2023, Ajax proved to be a force to reckon with when they finished the year on high, taking gold at the African Union Sports Council Region 5, Zone VI club championships.
They didn’t lose a match in the competition that had teams from South Africa, Zambia and Mozambique.
The team’s performance in previous years boosted the popularity of the sport in the country especially in Bulawayo.
Coached by Cephas Mshati, the team boasts of talented players like Caston Zitsanza, Clinton Sikhupha, Ophias Mguni, Mbongeni Tshabangu and Brighton Ndimande.
The women’s side has Sibusisiwe Mzizi, Audrey Moyo, Achetes Moyo, Christabel Mazwarira and Ayanda Mhembere.
As part of their development programme, they have junior teams in the club as well. – @NkosieLegend.
Online Reporter