Thu, 29 Sep 2016 09:32:57 +0000
THE obstacles the national netball team endured during their fight to win the 2016 Mission Foods Nations Cup tournament held in Singapore are regrettable says Vice President Inonge Wina.
At the handover ceremony of the 2016 Mission Foods Nation’s trophy held at her office yesterday, Wina said she was moved by the determination of the team to strive for greatness and honour for the country.
“It is unfortunate that our women team had to encounter difficulties when vying for this trophy in Singapore. It is sad that you had to play on empty stomachs against Singapore but even that did not stop you from emerging victorious. Your desire to strive for first position on the African continent by 2019 is inspiring,
“ There is nothing more inspiring than seeing women aim for success.
‘‘This is indeed a meritorious achievement which should be celebrated by every patriotic Zambian. Government is very proud of your display of hard work. This is the first six nations trophy to come to our continent, ” she said.
She hailed the Netball Association of Zambia (NAZ) executive committee for their hard work exhibited in the last three years to ensure the team participated at the Sydney 2015 World Cup and the recent tournament in Singapore.
The Vice President said Government’s policy on gender inclusiveness in Zambia was yielding the desired results.
” We have women coming on board to embrace and participate in the sport of their choice. Government through the able leadership of President Edgar Lungu will continue to provide opportunities that increase women’s and girls participation, ” she said.
Wina commended the sponsors for supporting the team.
” I thank Zanaco, MultiChoice Zambia, Cavmont Bank, Zesco, the National Olympic Committee of Zambia and the National Sports Council of Zambia for their financial contribution to the team, ” she said.
She presented two sets of sporting attire, footwear and netballs to the team for the excellent run at the tournament.
NAZ president Gertrude Mukumi appealed for increased funding to the National Sports Council of Zambia because the body had difficulties financing team sports like netball due to colossal budgets.
