BUZ chairman, Addison Chiware said the regional showpiece would mark the beginning of a new era for the minority sport, giving international experience to the youthful players.
After the April showdown, the Union will also host the women’s club Championships scheduled for 3- 10 May. A month later, Zimbabwe will again play host to the men’s edition of the regional basketball extravaganza.
South Africa and Mozambique were the usual hosts of the club championships in recent years but the country’s successful bid to organize the showpiece this year will go a long way in promoting basketball development.
The issue of funding remains a worry for the minority sports in Zimbabwe. Commendable talent from passionate players is displayed on the local scene yet the teams fail to participate at regional, continental and international events, much to the frustration of various stakeholders.
National women’s volleyball team had their trip to Algeria for the Beijing Olympics qualifiers cancelled, a fortnight ago, as lack of foreign currency hit the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.
The Kyokushin karatekas also missed the 2009 World Cup in Japan while the Zimbabwe amateur boxers failed to make it to Algeria this year. – Gracie Chirumanzu
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News