Thu, 22 Jun 2017 08:44:03 +0000
By GRACE CHAILE LESOETSA
A CONFIDENT 12-member national netball team yesterday left for Uganda with an assurance of winning the African championship which kicks off this weekend.
The Charles Zulu-tutored Queens declared readiness for the tournament which is also being used as a qualifier for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Speaking before departure at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport yesterday, Zulu said the team was adequately prepared for the challenge.
He was impressed by the players’ dedication and hard work during the preparations.
“We have the capacity to reach the finals at the tournament. I have done the homework as a coach and hoping for the best from the players. Our target is definitely to win the title,” he said.
He said the team was headed for a tough competition and needed to be focused to reach the objective.
Netball Association of Zambia (NAZ) president Gertrude Mukumi called on the players to rise above the odds and make Zambia proud.
Mukumi told the team to be fearless and have the belief that they can achieve their target.
“I am confident that you will make NAZ and all Zambians proud. Play as a unit and put in your all into the game,” she said.
The team was expected to touch down at Entebbe International Airport at 03:10 hours today.
Meanwhile, Malawi netball team assistant coach Samuel Kanyenda said the team was ready for the tournament.
Although missing the bulk of key players, Kanyenda said he had faith in the team that he has assembled.
“We are more than ready for the tournament despite that we will not have a number of reliable players. People have to understand that it is not possible to have all your best players every time you need them,” he said.
Australian-based shooter, Mwawi Kumwenda, who plays for Melbourne Vixens, is among the key players that will miss the Uganda trip.
Others missing include captain Caroline Mtukule-Ngwira, Tigresses’ goal defender Grace Mwafulirwa-Mhango, Towera Vinkhumbo-Nyirenda, centre Takondwa Lwazi and slippery shooter Sindie Simtowe-Msowoya.
The African championship will run from June 24 to 30.
