Story by Tafara Chikumira
THE Judo Association of Zimbabwe (JAZ) has taken the new sport to Gokwe with more than 10 schools in Gokwe South district benefiting from the initiative.
Having launched a judo tatami (mats) at St Agnes Primary School in Gokwe this Monday, the focus is on the young to embrace the sport.
JAZ president Sensei Smart Deke said, “The community anticipates some huge returns to be accrued from the sporting discipline. Our main aim is to fish out young talent that can be nurtured into fine athletes for tomorrow. Meanwhile, we are going to expand with the establishment of dojo (judo sporting facility) soon, which will enable us to promote the sport to some local competitive competitions.”
“We are here to support associations to ensure that they implement our government sports policies whenever they execute their duties through our commissions like SRC and boxing federation,” said the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture’s district officer, Mrs Viola Mwale.
The community is as excited at the prospects that lie ahead.
“Not all learners are gifted academically. Some are bright in sporting activities, but the sporting activities do vary as their areas of interest and talent vary. So, the advent of judo in schools is commendable. It will create a wholesome platform for access by every learner despite their backgrounds and geographical locations,” said a community member.
“We are happy with the advent of the sport in our locality. We hope to get some sponsorship to pursue a career in judo,” added another community member.
Gokwe South district is renowned for sporting excellence after producing former footballers such as Albert Mbano and Energy Murambadaro.
A chess team from Cheziya High School also made headlines after representing the country at an international tournament in Italy last year.
