Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Pickleball Association (ZPA) says it is ready to take the sport to greater heights after officially attaining national body status following its registration with the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
The Association has become the first pickleball body in Southern Africa to be formally recognised as a national sporting organisation, a milestone officials say will open doors for structured development of the fast-growing sport.
ZPA president Mthandazo Ngwenya said the registration was a major step in transforming pickleball into a professionally administered sport in the country.
“This is a historic milestone for pickleball in Zimbabwe. Our registration with the SRC means the sport is now fully recognised and we can implement structured development programmes across the country,” said Ngwenya.
He added that the association was focusing on building a strong administrative foundation to ensure long-term growth.
“Better governance and administration yield a positive multiplier effect in all sectors. When the foundation is solid, the sport doesn’t just grow, it thrives,” he said.
Ngwenya noted that the ZPA was guided by the Public, Private and Communities Partnership (PPCP) model, which seeks to bring different stakeholders together to support the sport.
“Our vision is not only to grow pickleball locally but to build one of the most organised associations in the world.
Through partnerships with communities, private companies and public institutions, we believe the sport can create opportunities and positively impact communities,” he said.
The association has lined up several events this year as it seeks to popularise the sport in all provinces.
Ngwenya said they were also working to involve Zimbabweans living abroad in the sport’s development.
“We are building strong international connections. Our long-term plan includes forming a strong diaspora team made up of Zimbabweans living abroad, who are playing pickleball at high levels,” he said.
Despite the ambitious plans, Ngwenya said they were taking a gradual approach to development.
“We believe we will get there step by step. Our faith is strong and we believe God is guiding this journey,” he said.
