Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda , [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Pickleball Association (ZPA) has started rolling out training clinics with a Trainer of Trainers programme (ToT), in a bid to have as many coaches countrywide as possible.
The first of the training programmes were held in Bulawayo in April and the second one was concluded in Harare last week, with the ZPA expressing satisfaction with the attendance and interest from teachers and other members of the community.
Over 20 participants took part in the training in Harare, according to ZPA president Mthandazo Ngwenya.
Ngwenya said the workshop in Harare was meant to build pickleball value chains and networks through training trainers along the supply chain.
“Over 20 participants attended from the Harare Metropolitan Province and this signified the appetite and passion for the sport. The participants were presented with internationally recognised certificates in the presence of officials from the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture. This is a journey of growth, development and inspiration in the wonderful world of pickleball.
“We thank the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for their presence at the workshop as it signifies the importance and recognition of the power of sports in our community.
“From Harare, we are going to visit other areas as we intensify our training programmes,” said Ngwenya.
He said the workshop was a chance to witness the birth of a new era in the world of pickleball in Harare.
“Pickleball is a relatively young and dynamic sport that has captured the hearts of players around the world with its blend of skill, strategy and friendly competition. And, it is amazing to see that passion for pickleball has reached our shores.
“In Harare, we gathered a group of enthusiastic individuals who are not only eager to learn but also willing to take on the responsibility of becoming trainers themselves. Each one of the trained individuals holds the potential to become a catalyst for change, inspiring others to embrace the game and helping them discover the joy it brings.
“That is why this Trainer of Trainers clinic is so crucial because it empowers us to multiply our impact and spread the love for pickleball far and wide. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the participants of this Trainer of Trainers pickleball clinic.
” Together, let us create a vibrant pickleball community in Harare that not only thrives but also becomes a source of inspiration for others to join us in this incredible journey. Thank you to the organisers, sponsors Circolo Italiano and everyone involved in making this clinic possible,” said Ngwenya.
Meanwhile, Ngwenya told Zimpapers Sports Hub that ZPA had since grown in strides by achieving a milestone in holding a pickleball international online seminar, which attracted over 200 participants.
Online Reporter