Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has applauded the senior rugby team, The Sables after a stellar 2024 season which saw the team lifting the African Cup .
The Sables paid a courtesy call on the President at State House this Wednesday.
The Sables had a great season in which they won the Africa Cup in July before winning all their matches of the year, and progressing the whole season undefeated.
After their outstanding feat, the senior rugby team accompanied by their officials paid a courtesy call on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to show him the Africa Cup Trophy as well apprise the plans for next year.
The President was happy with the team lifting the country’s flag high.
“I am honoured today as we gather to celebrate an extraordinary victory and pay tribute to the remarkable spirit, resilience, and teamwork that have propelled our team to this pinnacle of success at the Rugby African Cup Championships in Uganda. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our players, coaches, and support staff, serving as a shining symbol of our nation’s pride and unity.
“Together, we honour the incredible journey that has led us here and the values that unite us as a community. Let us take a moment to reflect on the journey that led us to this momentous occasion. The path to greatness is often anxious with challenges. Our team faced aggressive opponents, rigorous training sessions, and extraordinary pressure on and off the field. Yet, through every tackle and try, you embodied the true meaning of sportsmanship, passion, and determination,” said the President.
The Head of State went on to challenge the Sables to continue inspiring the youth.
“You have shown us that with commitment, belief in each other, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible. You’ve inspired a nation. Your triumph at the Rugby African Championships not only puts our country on the rugby map but also serves as an encouragement for our youth and future generations to pursue their dreams relentlessly. You have proven that with teamwork, anything can be accomplished, and you have made us all proud,” he added.
The President went on to reward the Sables players and their technical department with US$6 500 each, a gesture that has been applauded.
“Your Excellency, as the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, we are forever indebted to your unwavering support towards the implementation of sport and recreation programmes in the country. The Ministry appreciates the support by the Second Republic towards refurbishment and construction of sport and recreation facilities in the country. Sport indeed is a game changer in fostering unity and patriotism, promoting health and wellness, and addressing social ills.
“Your Excellency, these achievements align perfectly with your government’s vision for sport as outlined in NDS1 – as a tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and economic development. The Sables’ success has already inspired increased participation in rugby across our provinces, creating opportunities for youth engagement and development as enshrined in our National Strategy. As we look towards the future, this victory positions us strongly in our quest to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The Sables have shown that with proper support, preparation, and determination, Zimbabwe can reclaim its place among rugby’s elite nations, further advancing our national agenda of global competitiveness and excellence,” said the Acting Minister of Sport, Recreation. Arts & Culture, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe.
“We are very happy with this gesture it means a lot for us as players, we have worked hard and to get this recognition from the President it means a lot and it oushes us to work extra hard,” noted Sables captain, Hilton Mudariki.
The Sables presented a President Mnangangwa applauds Sables following stellar year
Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has applauded the senior rugby team, The Sables after a stellar 2024 season which saw the team lifting the African Cup .
The Sables paid a courtesy call on the President at State House this Wednesday.
The Sables had a great season in which they won the Africa Cup in July before winning all their matches of the year, and progressing the whole season undefeated.
After their outstanding feat, the senior rugby team accompanied by their officials paid a courtesy call on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to show him the Africa Cup Trophy as well apprise the plans for next year.
The President was happy with the team lifting the country’s flag high.
“I am honoured today as we gather to celebrate an extraordinary victory and pay tribute to the remarkable spirit, resilience, and teamwork that have propelled our team to this pinnacle of success at the Rugby African Cup Championships in Uganda. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our players, coaches, and support staff, serving as a shining symbol of our nation’s pride and unity.
“Together, we honour the incredible journey that has led us here and the values that unite us as a community. Let us take a moment to reflect on the journey that led us to this momentous occasion. The path to greatness is often anxious with challenges. Our team faced aggressive opponents, rigorous training sessions, and extraordinary pressure on and off the field. Yet, through every tackle and try, you embodied the true meaning of sportsmanship, passion, and determination,” said the President.
The Head of State went on to challenge the Sables to continue inspiring the youth.
“You have shown us that with commitment, belief in each other, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible. You’ve inspired a nation. Your triumph at the Rugby African Championships not only puts our country on the rugby map but also serves as an encouragement for our youth and future generations to pursue their dreams relentlessly. You have proven that with teamwork, anything can be accomplished, and you have made us all proud,” he added.
The President went on to reward the Sables players and their technical department with US$6 500 each, a gesture that has been applauded.
“Your Excellency, as the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, we are forever indebted to your unwavering support towards the implementation of sport and recreation programmes in the country. The Ministry appreciates the support by the Second Republic towards refurbishment and construction of sport and recreation facilities in the country. Sport indeed is a game changer in fostering unity and patriotism, promoting health and wellness, and addressing social ills.
“Your Excellency, these achievements align perfectly with your government’s vision for sport as outlined in NDS1 – as a tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and economic development. The Sables’ success has already inspired increased participation in rugby across our provinces, creating opportunities for youth engagement and development as enshrined in our National Strategy. As we look towards the future, this victory positions us strongly in our quest to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The Sables have shown that with proper support, preparation, and determination, Zimbabwe can reclaim its place among rugby’s elite nations, further advancing our national agenda of global competitiveness and excellence,” said the Acting Minister of Sport, Recreation. Arts & Culture, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe.
“We are very happy with this gesture it means a lot for us as players, we have worked hard and to get this recognition from the President it means a lot and it oushes us to work extra hard,” noted Sables captain, Hilton Mudariki.
The Sables presented a signed shirt for the President as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup Qualifiers.
