adminThe Rhodesia Herald,
November 4, 1963
MASHONALAND no longer have things all their own way in women’s basketball, despite the fact that they won all three of their matches at Umtali last weekend.
The three other provinces particularly newcomers Manicaland, are fast closing the gap.
It was evident that the Mashonaland team needs to work out together more than they did if they hope to retain their top-of-the-log position when the second round of inter-provincials is played in Gwelo next month.
This was the first time that an inter-provincial tournament has been held in Umtali and Manicaland marked their entry into Southern Rhodesian women’s basketball by finishing second to Mashonaland.
Matabeleland came third with Midlands fourth. Although they did not win a game this round, Midlands fought hard and lost by only five baskets to both Matabeleland and Mashonaland and by one basket to Manicaland, who in turn beat Matabeleland by only one basket.
Mashonaland beat the young Manicaland side 43-21 after leading by only 14-9 at change over.
For Mashonaland, Fofo van der Noll netted 15 points, while the Manica captain, Ann Mant scored 13 in an outstanding performance.
Midlands never gave up trying in their game against Mashonaland and went down 16-26 after a hard fight.
Once again Fofo van der Noll came to light, this time with 12 points. Mashonaland produced their best basketball against their keen rivals, Matabeleland, who they beat 34-20. But even then Mashonaland did not play consistently well.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
Women basketball leagues are common in many countries, with Zimbabwe currently having Harare Basketball league which has more than ten teams.
The Zimbabwe women’s national basketball team represents Zimbabwe in international basketball competitions. The governing body is the Basketball Union of Zimbabwe.
There is a greater need for the support of women’s basketball, through availing of sponsorships and academies in the entire country.
The debate around gender equality in sports remains a controversial topic which still affects the amount of support and attention given to women in various sporting activities, including basketball.
Zimbabwe now has 10 provinces, opposed to four then. Harare and Bulawayo Metropolitan, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, Masvingo, Manicaland, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Midlands. This increases the number of teams, making the sport more competitive.
Online Reporter