Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THE Zimbabwe Handball Federation (ZHF) has strengthened its partnership with the National Association of Primary Heads (NAPH) as it intensifies efforts to identify and develop future national team players through grassroots programmes.
The federation’s “catch them young” philosophy is gathering momentum in Bulawayo, where the two organisations are working together to nurture emerging talent and strengthen the sport at primary school level.
The collaboration has also enabled ZHF to monitor the performance of certified match officials who recently completed federation training clinics, as part of efforts to improve standards of officiating in schools.
Zimbabwe Handball Federation President Mr Taurai Muberekwa said building a strong foundation at grassroots level is critical to the sport’s long-term success.
“We are happy there is activity at the grassroots. We intend to have a monitoring and tracking system so that we monitor our athletes as they are absorbed by clubs and national teams. We need a firm foundation to realise success at national level, and that begins with partnership at this stage,” he said.
NAPH official responsible for handball, Mrs Rachel Rashamira said the partnership has benefited both young players and match officials.
“We enjoy a good relationship with ZHF, and we are happy to note that our officials are putting into practice what they learnt during the clinics. We hope this will improve the standard of handball,” she said.
Meanwhile, Bulawayo Province is using its provincial finals to select a team for the NAPH National Finals, with five districts competing across seven sporting codes.
NAPH Bulawayo Provincial Chairperson Mr Dumisani Mathwasa said the province is determined to field a competitive team in Mutare.
“We are using this platform to select a provincial team to represent us at the national finals in Mutare. We intend to have a six-day training camp before departure so that our athletes are fine-tuned. We also want athletes to make the cut for the COSSASA Games. This year, we have introduced footgolf as a new sporting code,” he said.
The NAPH National Finals will be held in Mutare from 20 to 24 July, where provinces will compete for honours while outstanding athletes continue progressing through Zimbabwe’s grassroots sports development pathway.
