ZIMBABWE'S Under-19 national table tennis team is in Nigeria, ready to compete in the highly-anticipated ITTF African Youth Championships.
This follows closely on the heels of the nation's Under-13 team's participation in an "inspiring hopes week," signalling a strong push for youth development within the sport.
The three-member squad, comprising Trust Madoro, Prophesor Mwatsika and Shalom Makoni, will represent the country.
Their presence at such a high-profile event is a crucial step in providing them with invaluable international exposure and experience.
Zimbabwe Table Tennis Union (ZTTU) president, Noah Ferenando, emphasised the significance of this opportunity.
"This is a significant step in providing them with the much-needed exposure and experience on a global stage," Ferenando stated, highlighting the union's commitment to nurturing young talent.
This participation builds on a recent string of successes for Zimbabwean table tennis, notably the Under-19 team's impressive haul of three bronze medals at the recent African Union Sports Council Games in Botswana.
These achievements, according to Ferenando, not only showcase their potential but also highlight the progress they are making in closing existing gaps in the sport.
- Abused female refs take on Zhoya's accomplices
- SRC welcomes Fifa decision on Zhoya
- Mr President, save our football from global isolation
- Defiant SRC digs in on Zifa audit
Keep Reading
Coach Tinashe Duri will lead the team through the demanding schedule, which includes team events, doubles and singles competitions.
The ZTTU believes this experience will be instrumental in further developing the players and building on their recent successes.
The ZTTU extended its sincere appreciation to all the stakeholders who made this journey possible, specifically mentioning the Sports and Recreation Commission and the Solomon Musiwacho Foundation.
"Your unwavering support is crucial as we nurture and develop our young athletes," Ferenando remarked, acknowledging the vital role played by these organisations.
As the tournament gets underway, all eyes will be on the Zimbabwean trio as they aim to make their mark on the African table tennis scene.
