The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Sports Correspondent
THE Manicaland Rugby Board (MRB) has called on stakeholders and individuals to come on board with resources and financial assistance to propel the newly-introduced women rugby in the province to dizzy heights. Some rural and urban schools in the province have already commenced playing competitive rugby matches, with scores of female pupils showing interest, verve and passion on the male-dominated sport.
Rural secondary schools in Honde Valley such as Sagambe, Chavhanga, St Peter’s Mandeya and Muteereri have been actively involved in women rugby, while in Mutare Urban, Dangamvura and Nyamauru high schools have embraced the sport.
MRB chairman Josiah Borerwe said since the project was mooted in February, it had received satisfactory responses from schools and stakeholders. “We would like to encourage the Mutare community to support the girl child and assist them with resources to join and enjoy the sport.
“We are, however, appealing for more equipment such as balls, kits and cones. We have been promoting the sport through schools. Since it is a contact game, we are engaging pupils aged 14 years and above to participate. The response has been satisfactory. The sport is set to grow in the province.
“We urge more schools to come in and accord the girl child a chance to participate in the sport. There is, however, need for support for the sport to grow. “Schools like Dangamvura and Nyamauru high schools have already assembled their female teams thanks to provincial development officer George Mufute, who has been working tirelessly to make sure that the sport develops in the province,” he said.
One of the leading supermarkets in Mutare, Mutare Spar recently handed over three rugby balls which are going to be used in developing women rugby. Mutare Spar general manager Houston Munyoro, said they would continue to give back to the community that supports them.
“We will continue to be part of them. We will support them all the way together with other institutions that we support and donate to like Zororai Old People’s Home, Eastern Highlands Trust, Chengetai Children’s Home and St Weighbergh’s Primary School,” he said.
