1 NETZIM KELLY TIPPED FOR GREATNESS RANL AWARDS INSIDE THE MIND OF A COACH MEN`S NETBALL ON THE RISE RISING STAR ALERT: 2024 | JANUARY | FIRST EDITION MAGAZINE Gender Equality In Zimbabwe Netball RANL pays tribute to the late Jani, honours national team players Mlambo shares his coaching philosophy
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3 After finishing fourth last season, ZDF Queens are gearing up for an exciting upcoming season. ZDF Queens coach Prince “Mahuku” Ncube`s who took over the reigns from head coach Joel Sibanda mid-season believes 2023 was a learning curve for him and is ready to take up the challenge this season. He reflects on the lessons learned from last season’s performance, Ncube acknowledges the importance of self-reflection and identifies areas where the team fell short in order to rectify them moving forward. This demonstrates his commitment to continuous growth and development. “We learned that consistency and hard work are the keys to success,” Ncube told Netzim “Last season, we based our decisions on the team`s clinical attacking skills, while we lacked on the defensive end. We failed to work as a unit defensively.” “We fell short on endurance and team defense, and going into the 2024 season, we will work on that. We need to improve quite a lot of aspects in the coming season, including maintaining momentum under pressure and conversion rate, amongst others,” he said. To overcome their past losses and win the next season, the coach has developed a number of plans that should propel the team towards excellence. Building team resilience is essential to overcoming obstacles on the court or in challenging circumstances off the court. The coach is adamant that resiliency is a crucial quality that separates good teams from average ones. Instead of giving in to negativity in the face of difficulty, he exhorts his players to view difficulties as chances for personal development. “Well, we are going to work so hard in all areas. Correcting our mistakes from the previous season and perfecting the areas we did well is the best way we can improve the team’s performance. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Ncube is determined to set lofty goals and expectations for his team. “We are planning to start and finish the 2024 season on a high note. With the aid of some additions to the squad, we are looking forward to a successful season. “We are eyeing a better position in the top three this season, and we will work for it.” ZDF Queens` journey towards redemption
4 Teamwork has been at the core of the Platinum Queens’ triumphs over the years. Their ability to smoothly work together as a cohesive unit, each player understanding her role and responsibilities, has been instrumental in their achievemnents. The Zvishavane-based outfit are the three-time champions for the Premier Netball League. The team`s historic achievement can be attributed to their unwavering commitment to teamwork, effective strategic planning, exceptional leadership from their coach, and his motivational approaches. Their success serves as a shining example for aspiring athletes everywhere on how dedication, unity, meticulous preparation, and strong leadership skills can pave the way for greatness in any sport. Netzim caught up with team`s coach, Simbarashe Mlambo who was named the 2023 PNL coach of the year as he speaks about his coaching philosophy and how it has shaped his team. Read More... Q: What is your coaching philosophy A: I believe in working as a team and training as a team on and off basically my philosophy. Q: Whats the importance of a coaching philosophy in sports A: Its all about principles, living with what you believe in, its all about culture and setting a tone for the club and what you believe in is what makes you the person that you are, if you have no philosophy, no guidelines, no principles to abide in it seizes to be sport really. Q: What are the key elements in your coaching philosophy, A: I think it works, plays, and prays as a team, believing in each other’ s abilities. Q: How has discipline played a significant role in your coaching philosophy A: Discipline is called because without it, you can’t hold each other up. You have got to show some integrity and obviously respect other people’s opinions. And to me Discipline is to understand that the team is greater than anybody else, whatever you do, try to cover each other’s mistakes and show great strength in believing in each other, basically what holds us together is our ability to stick by one thing look at the greater picture and put effort to achieve that. Q: What are some specific methods you use to instill discipline and create accountability within your team MLAMBO SHARES HIS COACHING PHILOSOPHY
5 A: We are all accountable at one time, and it is really important for the girls to feel that they are a family. Hold them responsible for their actions, we just make sure that whatever we do, we are in the right frame of mind and proffessional, what unites us is that the girls understand that everyone needs a shoulder everyone needs a family, we are all related one way or another. Q: Highlight the importance of motivation in achieving success A: We always try to make sure that yhe girls are accountable to somebody we have got a sponsor, a base of supporters, so many little girls that look to the players as motivation is what shapes them. Q: What has kept your players motivated for the past 6 years you have comptete in the elite league A: The girls are always motivated, its their lifeline, they believe that working for a greater purpose and serving the community and I think motivation is very important, and what I think is more important is the driving force within each and every individual and always knowing that supervision is not exactly ideal for anyone who has got her mind set on higher targets, so the girls are intrinsically motivated and they always show great character and attitude. I remember in 2018, when we were basically nobody, we were nicknamed the primary kids, and everybody just loved we were the underdogs. So that recognition by teammates Those national team call ups, Q: Have you started your preparations for the upcoming league A: Coming from off-season. We trying to start early, but its still low low, we are just starting off on a low pace, just making sure that we dont pick up any injuries, the girls are just motivated to just achieve As a club we have come very far. Obviously, everyone expects us to be on top of our game and improve our game. We just want to make sure that this season we going to defend our title and see how it goes and give everyone a round of their money, Q: What are yor expectation ahead of the upcoming season A: Bringing our A game on, there is always pressure winning three years in a raw, the pressure is real we are going to enjoy our selves and remember its a game, and if we are to top it up for the fourth time, it will be very nice. Definitely, we are going all out on this one.
6 Gems captain Felisitus Kwangwa has predicted a golden future for Greenfuel Queens star Upenyu Kelly Muyambo, claiming that she will be the best defender in the country for an extended period. Muyambo made her debut Gems appearance during the Africa Netball Championships held in Botswana last year, where she shared the court with Kwangwa, affectionately known as the “Minister of Defense” or “Zim One.” Having seen Muyambo from close quarters, Kwangwa believes that she is a special player and is bound for a great future in the game. “Kelly is a very good player with so much potential, and I can say that my first time seeing her, I was impressed. She is good and just reminded me of me when I was 18, 19, and thereabout,” Kwangwa told Netzim. “I also remember saying to the other guys, ‘I might be wrong, but I am seeing this girl going far, and I am seeing her most probably doing better than what I did in netball.” Kwangwa is the first local player to sign for a team in the Super League (England) and play for three consecutive seasons. “And one thing I liked about her and I hope she doesn’t change is that she is so humble and down to earth, and she was actually looking up to everyone who was in camp as her seniors, and she was ready to learn, and I hope she managed to absorb only the positive, which will help her enhance the game,” Kwangwa adds. “And seeing her in action in Botswana, she just rose to the occasion. Her first time she played wing defense, literally she reminded me of everything about me when I first played for the senior team. It was in Botswana as well at BONA courts. I played Wing Defense as well, and I smashed it, of course switching her to Goal Keeper and playing someone who was tall, and when Elizabeth left, the gap wasn’t that much. She did a massive job. “And I guarantee you, in the next World Cup, if Zimbabwe makes it, she is going to be the big name that everyone is going to talk about. “I’m out of words, but I like her character style Kelly tipped for greatness By Shelly Guni
7 of play. I hope she keeps on working hard and becoming the person she wants to be,” Kwangwa says. And to confirm Kwangwa’s sentiments on Muyambo’s character on and off the court, she was voted the Players’ Player of the Year. She received her award during last year’s Nedbank Premier Netball League awards ceremony held at a local hotel in Harare. She also had a number of player of the match awards during the 2023 season. And her exploits during the season saw her being called to the national team and making it into the final cut that traveled to Botswana. Muyambo’s coach, Sibonginkosi “Bongie” Dube, has so much faith in her. She recalls how she identified her. “My journey with Kelly started in April 2022. I used to invite local teams every Wednesday for training so that they would benefit from training with a competitive team. “I sent word that the local girls interested in tri- aling out for the Green Fuel netball team or just interested in training with the team should feel free to come through. That’s when Kelly reached out. “She tells me she got the message from her uncle, but after her uncle watched one of our training sessions, he dissuaded her from joining us, citing that Kelly’s skillset levels were way below what he had witnessed. “But Kelly was determined to learn, and she reached out; unfortunately, by then we were on Easter break and I didn’t get a chance to see. She sadly grew cold feet. “When I called for trials in mid-season break, I discovered that Kelly had joined our D1 team, and we brought the whole team in for trials. Kelly and a few others made the cut. Unfortunately, she picked up an ankle during trials, and we rested her for a month. Kelly came to us as a shooter, and I converted her to a defender after seeing her natural hunting instincts.” Dube had to take Muyambo for some extras so that she could catch up with the rest of the team. “Coaching Kelly had to return to basic netball fundamentals and, most of the time, work on her away from the rest of the team so she could catch up quickly with the rest of the team because she was special and she had a lot to offer. “Her first league game was against Ngezi, where I put her in as an impact player in the last 7 min- utes. We were leading Ngezi with two goals when we introduced Kelly, and we pulled away to a sixgoal lead. “Her second game was in the last bubble of 2022 against ZDF. We were even on scores at the first quarter break, and then I slotted in Kelly at the beginning of the second quarter. I remember vividly that ZDF only managed to score two goals that quarter. “2023 season, Kelly ascertained herself as the mainstay of the Green Fuel defense. She’s also the captain of Greenfuel, leading her charges to a second-place finish with only two losses. “She had her first national team call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations tournament held in Bot- swana, and I must say she fitted in like a glove. She played WD and GK, and I smiled watching her go about her business with ease,” she said. At her club, she was voted the best defender of the season and shared spoils for player of the season with Nicole. “I believe we have not even scratched the sur- face of her talent. That girl is amazing, and I feel she is destined for great things. “If she keeps true to her path, I believe Kelly is one of the players that will be scouted to play out of this country, most probably in the best leagues in the world. I have never seen such exponential growth in a player over a short period of time,” Dube said.
8 Perpetua Siyachitema has capped a remarkable and outstanding year by collecting the coach of the year award for three consecutive years, but the awards night was made even more special as it served as a touching moment to honor the late netballer Pauline Jani. The 40-year-old head coach received the top award, which she also collected in 2021 and 2022, at the Rainbow Amateur Awards ceremony in the capital on Saturday night for guiding Glow Petroleum to a third-league victory without having conceded a defeat during the 2023 season. Siyachitema was also rewarded for representing the country as a match analyst at the Netball World Cup last year in South Africa. RANL also used the occasion to honor the late former national team goal shooter and ZRP Mambas Pauline Jani, who passed away last season after a short illness. RANL chairperson Melody Garikai acknowledged her loss during the opening remarks and requested attendees observe a moment of silence, after which she glowingly spoke of her contribution to netball. “I would like to state our profound loss at Pauline Jani’s (the gaffer’s) death and the deaths of the other two players belonging to the league. Pauline’s death has left an indelible void within our hearts. They say legends don’t die but live through the works they have left behind. Her legacy lives,” she said. Pauline was posthumously rewarded with three awards, one of them in recognition of making it to the top 10 goal scorers despite not finishing the league.Her two friends, Perpetua Siyachitema and Yolanda Moyo, received the accolades on her behalf.Barbra Lodi of Glow Petroleum walked away with the players’ player award, while teammate Christine Kadandare won the Golden Hand award. The people’s choice award was scooped by Priscilla Gatsi of Black Mambas Queens. There was a tie pertaining to the player of the year as two players had the same number of accolades. These are Chido Nenhunzi of Tenax and Panashe Taruwedzera of Sweet Valley. Male and female athletes that took part in national duty programs such as the World Cup Cup in South Africa and the African Netball Championships held in Botswana last year were also rewarded. These are Perpetua Siyachitema, Faith Matanganyidze, Talent Museka, Esnath Ndlovu, Paidamoyo Tinoza, Beaula Hlong- wane, Cynthia Gamuchirai, Tanaka, Tafadzwa Mawango, and Felistus Kwangwa. RANL pays tribute to the late Jani, honours national team players, Siyachitema By Philipa Jaja
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10 RANL AWARDS CEREMONY 13 JANUARY 2024
11 PNL AWARDS CEREMONY 9 DECEMBER 2023
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13 Mental health awareness is crucial for athletes as they gear up for a new season. It’s like a secret weapon that can make or break their performance on the field. You see, it’s not just about physical strength and agility; mental well-being plays a significant role in an athlete’s overall success. When an athlete enters the field with a clear mind and positive attitude, they are more likely to excel in their game. Think about it - when your mind is clouded with negative thoughts and self-doubt, how can you expect to perform at your peak? It’s like trying to run against the wind or swim upstream. Your body may be physically capable, but if your mind isn’t in the right place, everything becomes an uphill battle. That’s why mental health preparations are essential. Athletes face immense pressure to perform consistently and meet high expectations from fans, coaches, and themselves. This pressure can take a toll on their mental well-being if not managed effectively. Anxi- ety, stress, and even depression can creep in and hinder an athlete’s ability to focus on their game. By promoting mental health awareness among athletes, we equip them with tools to navigate these challenges confidently. They learn strategies to cope with stressors effec- tively and maintain a healthy mindset despite external pressures. This awareness allows athletes to recognize signs of mental distress early on so that they can seek help promptly. Moreover, mental health awareness helps break down the stigma surrounding psycho- logical struggles in sports. Athletes are often perceived as strong individuals who should be able to handle any obstacle thrown their way without showing vulnerability or weakness. But this toxic narrative only perpetuates harmful stereotypes that prevent athletes from seeking support when needed. When mental health becomes part of the conversation in sports culture, it creates a safe space for athletes to open up about their struggles without fear of judgment or ridicule. They realize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of strength and self-care. This shift in mindset can save lives and make a significant difference in an athlete’s overall well-being. Mental health awareness is vital for athletes as they prepare for a new season. It allows them to enter the field with a clear mind, ready to conquer any challenge that comes their way. By promoting mental well-being, we empower athletes to manage stressors effectively and break free from harmful stereotypes. Let’s prioritize mental health alongside phys- ical fitness because it’s the ultimate gamechanger for athletes aiming to reach their full potential. Mental health needs of athletes must be addressed
14 Filchrist Boarding netball player Kirsty Chauke attains 11 points in her A-Level Zimsec examination.
15 The issue of gender equality in Zimbabwean netball has been a problem for quite some time and must have to be addressed with now! The achievement of the men’s netball team in 2023 African NetBall Championships proved to be an important symbol and a proof that male athletes could also compete on equal terms with their female colleagues. The Golden Gems secured silver medal after losing to eventual winners, South Africa in the finals. However, these male athletes not only overcame many challenges but even challenged the conventional society rules with their remarkable performance on the court. This is so in a country that adheres to the roles of gender dictated by culture, where men playing netball are met with prejudice and indignation from other people. People are commonly laughed at and made fun of about their masculinity debated because they engage in what used to be traditionally known as a lady’s sport. The excellent work, by the men’s netball team in Zimbabwe ended all these stereotype and proved that talent talent knows no gender boundaries. Secondly, women’s netball is not only in a position to encourage inclusivity but also uplift the general sports performance of Zimba- bwe. In opening the opportunity to both men and women for sports excellency, we can now attract a broader pool of talents which in effect helps create healthier competition. This will not only translate to the personal gains of individual athletes but also contribute significantly towards development ofs netball. Support for gender equality in netball is consistent with the global initiatives to promote emancipation of women. Women empowerment is different from gender equality; the definition of gender equity includes making sure both genders have equal opportunities, power, and recognition. We help men’s netball in Zimbabwe to tell all people regardless of gender and nationality that they deserve equal opportunity to chase their aspirations without biasness or any prejudice. So, in order to deal with this issue adequately sports federations and governing bodies need to make proactive moves towards promoting gender balance within netball programs. This includes instituting measures that promote male participation in every level of the game, providing equal funding source for both genders and campaign toward changing societal norms’ attitudes with regards to gender role-driven sports. It is necessary to promote gender equality within Zimbabwean netball in order for it to develop and grow. Men’s netball team had a remarkable showing at the 2023 Africa Netball Championships and it proved that they have hidden abilities while, gauging of equal support is required for them. Eliminating the gen- der barriers will help create a more equitable society that is accessible to athletes from all walks of life. Time to support Men`s Netball
16 The Rainbow League (RANL) rewarded excel- lence amidst renewed calls to promote gender equity in the netball game. There are only four female coaches in the 18-team league. And it took Lawrence Moyo, a renowned sports journalist with the Zimpapers stable, to address the issue as the guest speaker at the league’s fourth awards held on January 13. “I want to challenge RANL to groom and pro- mote female coaches. I understand there are only four female coaches in the league. For 2024, let’s have at least 14 ladies coaches,” quipped Moyo during his speech. Zimbabwe Netball Association (ZINA) presi- dent Laeticia Chipandu took up the clarion call and promised that measures would soon be put in place to address the disparity. “You say there is a shortage of female coaches; do not worry, that issue is going to be dealt with as early as next week,” she said. Despite the fact that the RANL league boasts of having the remarkable Perpetua Siya- chitema, the Glow Petroleum head coach who has led her team to championship victory three successive years in a row without falter- ing, little has been done to encourage women to take up coaching roles and emulate her. Siyachitema has not been given a chance to showcase her coaching prowess at the national level, nor has she ever been called to bolster the Gems technical bench, despite repeatedly affirming that she is interested in doing so in local media and being qualified to do so. However, rather than wait for league groom- ing, it should be made clear that female coaching should be self-pursuing by taking empowering courses. Other than that, netball will remain a female-dominated industry at the playing level while the executive positions continue to be scooped up by determined males with the right qualifications for them. RANL URGED TO GROOM FEMALE COACHES By Philipa Jaja
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18 Golden Sparrows Men’s Netball Club is set to make a triumphant return to the netball circle after a one-year absence. Club chairperson Clara Gumbo confirmed the development and said the team is coming back stronger and ready to compete. Gumbo is confident that they will be strong contenders for the title this season. “We are coming back with a bang. Preparations are well on course, and after a oneyear absence from netball circles, Sparrows is ready to reclaim their position as title contenders.” Under Gems captain Felisitus Kwangwa`s guidance, this reinvigorated team is poised for success in the upcoming season. During their hiatus, the team has undergone significant changes and improvements. They have recruited new, talented players who bring fresh perspectives and skills to the game. Clara Gumbo’s unwavering belief in her team’s abilities has been instrumental in motivating them to strive for excellence. As they make their comeback, the Golden Sparrows are determined to prove themselves as formidable opponents on the netball court. With their newfound strength and determina- tion, they aim to leave a lasting impression. “The Africa netball championships held in Botswana last year motivated us to regroup; it gave us the strength and zeal to bounce back. “And sparrows team being the pioneers of men`s netball in Zimbabwe, the team that used to travel across the borders, the passion drives us as a team, the talent in each and every team who is amongst our team. “Most of the players had relocated, which made the team disband at some point, and it actually contributed to the immense breakdown of the team. but now we are bringing the broken pieces back together to make one team. “We have a vast pool of players to choose from, both experienced and new, who are eager to be a part of this movement. “Our team is not just about playing the game; it’s about breaking barriers and challenging societal norms. We aim to inspire young boys and men across Zimbabwe to embrace netball as a sport for all genders. “With our passion as the driving force, we are determined to rebuild what was once lost. The talent within each member of our team is undeniable, and together we will showcase the true potential of men’s netball in Zimbabwe. “As we gather the broken pieces and unite as one team, we know that our journey will not be easy. However, with the combination of experience and youthful energy, we are con- fident that we can overcome any obstacles that come our way. “Together, we will write a new chapter in the history of men’s netball in Zimbabwe—one filled with determination, resilience, and success,” she said. “Our team is not just about playing the game; it’s about breaking barriers and challenging societal norms.” SPARROWS IS BACK, READY TO RUMBLE!
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20 Netball South Africa introduces the Netball South Africa Investment Group (NSAIG), a dedicated entity with a mission to catalyze the growth and commercialisation of netball. “Our primary goal is to make netball in South Africa not only a sporting passion but also a financially attractive investment for brands, stakeholders, and individuals keen on con- tributing to the development of this beloved sport.” – Cecilia Molokwane, President of Netball South Africa Through strategic partnerships, innovative sponsorship deals, and efficient resource allocation, NSAIG aims to create an ecosystem where netball thrives economically. By fostering an environment of financial sustainability, the investment group intends to generate economic spin-offs for the sport that will not only benefit the players and the organisation but also contribute significantly to the broader South African community. “At NSAIG, our mission is clear: to bring financial stability to netball, making it a lucrative venture for potential sponsors, partners, and investors. We believe that a robust financial foundation is key to unlocking the true potential of netball, enabling it to flourish on and off the court.” – Leapeetswe Molotsane, Chairperson of NSAIG - SUPERSPORT Netball SA embarks on groundbreaking initiative The Netball World Youth Cup is the pinnacle of netball competition for emerging players who are under 21 years of age. World Netball announced in August 2021 that Gibraltar Netball had been awarded the rights to host the Netball World Youth Cup 2025. The tournament will take place in two main competition venues in Gibraltar – The Tercentenary Sports Hall and Europa Sports Park, which was World Netball Announces Host For 2025 Netball World Youth Cup Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) on Thursday announced a sponsorship increase to N$2,5 million for Netball Namibia (NN) for this year’s season. MTC chief human and corporate affairs officer Tim Ekandjo announced that from the previous sponsorship of N$1,9 million last year, the company has increased the sponsorship by 36%, bringing the total to N$2,5 million. NN secretary general Isack Hamata announced that the 2024 netball season is scheduled to start countrywide on 15 March. Namibia Correctional Services (NSC) are the MTC netball premiership title winners and are expected to put in a concerted effort in their quest to retain the title, which now comes with an increase in prize money. Netball Namibia gets N$2,5m from MTC
21 Several issues have been discussed pertain- ing to netball, a sport predominantly played by women but now seeing men slowly intro- duced to the atmosphere, regionally and even internationally. Women have played this sport for many years, but there are some issues that have not been discussed in depth yet they are inextri- cably intertwined with women and how they perform in sport. This is the issue of return-toplay policies for pregnancy and injuries. Now we all know pregnancy is part and parcel of life, and it is a beautiful cycle that has seen us all here today to be able to read this. Yet ironically, this is now how it has been treated in our country. In my many years of being involved in the sport, I have seen count- less women get pregnant and not be able to come back from that to be the players they were once again. To better understand, we may need to discuss these issues in steps. I think the first step we need to take is to have people do research and even take courses to understand how much players can continue training, the limits, and how soon they can return to play. This can be in the form of a course orW a discussion in forums to better understand; this includes everyone. The return-to-play policies and procedures should be included as part of the contracts that players sign. At the moment, there aren’t a lot of contracts being signed, and there are none that include how to keep players involved during pregnancy and afterwards. Take New Zealand netball as an example. They include their national team players in camps; they can come during the day and be part of the training, even if it’s just theoretical. This keeps them motivated, makes them want to come back, and also gives them the hope that they can. Preg- nancy should not be a way that we lose our players, even top-tier players. We may also want to think about support groups and introducing that culture, espe- cially for women. There are some commonly used phrases like “paakazvara akabva apera.” These are very disturbing to hear and should not be used at all. Women, as part of their lives, may choose to have kids and raise their families, and they should be supported. As we speak, the NZ captain decided to take time off to be with family, the Australian GA Gretel Bueta has taken time off to be with family, and this is all well supported. While I understand that these other countries are better funded than we are, we can start with the little things. In conclusion, we need to have as much knowledge and give as much support about the biological side of women as we do their talents when they are able to play. We cannot choose to support them half-heartedly but as a whole. If we do better, we will see much better results. WRITTEN BY | TASHAN MTENGWA FOCUS ON RETURN TO PLAY POLICY Women have played this sport for many years, but there are some issues that have not been discussed in depth yet they are inextricably intertwined with women and how they perform in sport.
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