ZITSA Easter games: teacher fitness and fun

THE Zimbabwe Teachers Sports Association (ZITSA) will hold its inter-district Easter Games gala at Raylton Grounds today, to promote fitness through sports.

Teams from Bubi, Insiza, Lupane, Tsholotsho, Matobo and Nkayi will participate in various sporting disciplines like netball, volleyball, football, pool, chess and darts under the theme ‘Fitness Through Sports’.

Annually held before the pandemic, the games will also serve as a platform for teachers to socialise and share ideas while focusing on their physical and mental well-being.

ZITSA vice president, Nkosilathi Sibanda, said they last hosted the event pre-Covid-19 at Amakhosi Grounds in Gwabalanda, where Bubi won in football, Tsholotsho in volleyball and Nkayi in netball.

“I am glad the games are back after a five-year break caused by Covid-19.

The games will help teachers interact and distress. We are hoping they will grow and attract sponsorship one day, so that we can have an even bigger event,” said Sibanda.

The ZITSA Bulawayo Province committee member, Penrose Ncube, said: “Our main aim is to socialise, exercise and to share ideas on how to overcome the economic situations and other pressing issues in society. I encourage teachers to take part in such events as they are beneficial for our well-being and good for social connections,” said Ncube.

Former teacher, Annele Sibanda, volunteered to sponsor the games’ trophies and medals.

“I was so much involved in sports as a teacher. I felt it wise to give back to the community that I once lived in and contribute towards the profession, especially the sports sector.”

“I believe it will be an exciting day for teachers because they will get to socialise and share ideas as far as the profession is concerned.

They will also get fit. I understand many teams are involved this time, so it will really be great exposure,” she said.