Story by Mthokozisi Dube
PREMIER League volleyball is providing a platform for national team coaches to identify emerging talent ahead of upcoming international competitions.
The two-day Zimbabwe Premier League volleyball tournament, held at Hillside in Bulawayo, formed the third leg of the nationwide competition, which aims to popularise the sport, identify emerging players and encourage the formation of new teams across the country.
Zimbabwe Premier League Volleyball Chairperson Rudo Charuma said clubs were competing fiercely for places in the quarter-finals.
“It is a big moment for volleyball, and teams are fighting hard to secure their places in the quarter-finals. This initiative has helped unearth idle volleyball talent, and from here we will move to Masvingo for our fourth leg,” she said.
National team coaches are also using the tournament to identify players ahead of upcoming international assignments.
“You will recall that we have a major tournament in the DRC, so our national coaches are following up on players to select the best squad for the competition. Overall, it has been an exciting two days here,” said Vice-President in charge of Competitions, Vengai Nyaude.
The decentralisation of the sport has resulted in the emergence of new teams such as Victoria Falls Crocs, Gwanda Spikers and Masvingo-based Southern Aces.
The Premier League is also serving as a dress rehearsal for the Democratic Republic of Congo World Qualifiers, which double up as a selection platform for the Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Before the DRC tournament, the Zimbabwe Volleyball Association will hold inter-provincial competitions, followed by the National Youth Games in Marondera.
