From humble beginnings to international handball s...

From humble beginnings to international handball stardom

Patience Muchemwa

Zim Now Reporter

Ian Gono's story is a captivating tale of dedication, perseverance, and a passion for handball that transcends borders. It's a journey that began on the dusty courts of Zimbabwe and has taken him to the competitive leagues of South Africa and England. Gono's remarkable path is not only about athletic achievement but also about community empowerment and the transformative power of sport.

A chance encounter with handball during his high school days sparked a lifelong love affair for the sport. What initially appeared as an unusual game quickly morphed into an all-consuming passion. Gono's natural talent and unwavering commitment were evident from the start. He honed his skills, playing for his high school team and leading them to back-to-back national championships.

Gono's hunger for growth extended beyond the court. In 2015, he secured a coveted spot on the Zimbabwean senior national handball team, solidifying his position as a rising star. He later captained the under-20 national team, further etching his name in Zimbabwean handball history.

Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and new experiences, Gono embarked on a new chapter in South Africa. While pursuing his tertiary education, he actively participated in the South African handball scene, joining the Thunderbolts Handball Club. This reunion with high school teammates and his former coach culminated in the creation of the Thunderbolts Handball Academy.

The academy served a dual purpose: nurturing the next generation of handball players and providing vital life skills to youths from marginalized communities. The academy's curriculum encompassed not just handball training but also graphic design, coding, and IT services. This holistic approach reflected Gono's vision for handball as a tool for empowerment, not just a sporting pursuit.

Gono's relentless pursuit of excellence led him to England in 2022. There, he joined the Nottingham Handball Club, proving his mettle against international competition. This move was not solely motivated by his own ambitions; it was a chance to reunite with his family who had relocated to England.

Reflecting on the distinct styles of play across the countries he has competed in, Gono highlights the technical prowess of Zimbabwean and South African handball, while acknowledging the fast-paced nature and tactical mastery of the English game.

Gono's journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes. He emphasizes the importance of unwavering dedication and perseverance, highlighting the valuable life skills cultivated through handball, including leadership, discipline, and resilience. His unwavering commitment to these values underscores his belief that handball is a way of life, not just a sport.

With a clear-eyed understanding of the challenges facing handball in Zimbabwe, Gono envisions a future where he can leverage the experience and knowledge gained abroad to empower and support Zimbabwean athletes. His planned return signifies a homecoming and a mission – to replicate the success of the South African academy and give back to the community that nurtured him.

Gono's diverse interests extend beyond the court. He possesses a keen intellect and a passion for graphic design and cyber security, showcasing his well-rounded personality.

Icing on the cake, Gono has had the honor of captaining the Zimbabwean national team, a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and on-court skills. His special thanks to his long-time coach, Innocent Kanosvova, who has guided him from his high school days to the national team level, speaks volumes about the importance of mentorship in Gono's journey.