Centres in Mabvuku, Mbare, Seke, Western Suburbs and Zengeza form the basis of investment into the development of boys and girls playing rugby in these communities. Thirty six schools are participating in the programme, focused on providing skilled coaching, access to training equipment and regular playing opportunities over an eight-month period.
Giving children from the high density areas regular opportunities to play the sport is in line with the Zimbabwe Rugby Union’s strategic plan for the future, which looks to grow the number of participants and nurture future stars in the sport.
Current national team players Fortune Chipendu and Stephen Hunduza are first-hand examples of players who have come from such communities and continue to have success on the international stage.
The Old Mutual Community Cup tournaments will be held in Mbare on June 18, Mabvuku and Tafara on June 20, Chitungwiza on June 21 and at Bulawayo’s Hartsfield Ground on June 25.
With the Sables squad in camp preparing for the World Cup qualifiers, participants in the Mabvuku programme will on Friday be visited by the national players who hope to encourage the youngsters.
With successful management of this programme in the high density areas, Zimbabwe Rugby hopes to have a number of participants involved in such functions in years to come as national representatives in the sport.
Post published in: Rugby