Online Reporter
Collin Matiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe Education Squash Trust (ZEST), operating as Belgravia Squash Academy, is leading the growth of squash at Belgravia Sports Club in Harare through a new partnership with Redmark Group.
The partnership kicks-off with the Redmark Group Squash Open tournament, set for August 7-8 at Belgravia Sports Club.
The tournament has already attracted scores of juniors from all over the country.
Redmark Group chairman, Matthew Manyangadze, who is also an active squash player, said the company is committed to long-term support for the sport.
“We are promising to go a long way and sponsor big squash events in Zimbabwe,” said Manyangadze. “It’s exciting to find a sponsor who gives us an opportunity to explore more avenues that grow squash in the country.”
The response has extended beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
Several squash organisations in the US have expressed interest in participating in local tournaments after reading newspaper coverage.
Neighbouring countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Nigeria, have also shown interest.
As part of its development mandate, ZEST is planning to join hands with academies in Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia for an exchange programme.
This will precede planned tours to the US, Europe and Asia.
Beyond competition, ZEST will run a two-week squash coaching camp from August 10-22.
The camp will run under the theme: “Health for Mums and Kids”, which is aimed at community engagement.
“With the kind of coaching we provide, the kids will have fun and love to keep coming,” a ZEST spokesperson said.
“Sometimes kids are not free to join certain sports unless they have friends there. In this case, they have their mums, and they will adapt quickly. It’s also a great way to bond while keeping kids occupied.”
ZEST said the initiative is part of efforts to keep both children and adults active and to curb antisocial behaviour.
Registration for the Redmark Group Squash Open closes tomorrow.
