Manyame Falcons, Sparrows Reign Supreme at Glitter...

Manyame Falcons, Sparrows Reign Supreme at Glittering NRHL Awards

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

The Northern Region Handball League marked a historic milestone on Saturday, November 30, with its inaugural awards ceremony held at Harare Polytechnic. The glamorous event celebrated the league’s standout teams and players, capping off a remarkable 2024 season with recognition of excellence and a vision for growth.

Dominating the men’s division, the unstoppable Manyame Falcons HC were crowned champions, solidifying their status as the team to beat. Hot on their heels were the determined Spartans HC, clinching second place after a stellar campaign. The resilient Manyame Eagles HC took third, while the ever-spirited UZ Wildcats HC rounded off the top four in a fiercely contested competition.

In the women’s division, the Manyame Sparrows HC soared to victory, claiming the championship title in emphatic style.

They were followed by the formidable UZ Wildcats HC in second place, while City Stars HC and Panthers HC secured third and fourth places, respectively. Each team showcased exceptional skill and dedication, reflecting the growing strength of handball in the region.

Addressing the audience, NRHL Chairperson Yvette Ashbener hailed the awards as a watershed moment for the region.

“These awards are a brainchild of the HMPHA and are meant to recognize the athletes and officials who have excelled during the 2024 season,” she said.

Ashbener commended the resilience of the handball community, reflecting on the hurdles faced throughout the season.

“The running of the league has had its ups and downs. However, by gathering here today, all of you have demonstrated loyalty and pride in being associated with the Harare Metropolitan Province. May this spirit of togetherness prevail as we strive to improve our sport’s administration,” she added.

The ceremony also spotlighted Harare’s rising prominence on national and international stages. Earlier this year, players from the province represented Zimbabwe at the World Cup qualifiers in Ethiopia, further cementing its reputation as a hub of handball talent.

Zimbabwe Handball Federation President Beauty Mutsambirwa lauded Harare for setting a high standard with the awards initiative. “Harare, you have done very well. I like this initiative,” she said. However, she highlighted financial constraints at the national level, noting the federation’s competing priorities.

“As a handball board, we’d love to do this as well, but at the moment, funds are tight. We have responsibilities like preparing teams for international competitions, including the upcoming Zone VI tournament for Under-20 girls,” Mutsambirwa said.

The event also served as a launchpad for the future, with plans to attract corporate sponsorship and expand the league’s influence. Ashbener emphasized that the awards are only the beginning of a long-term vision to elevate the sport’s profile in Zimbabwe. “I hope the 2025 season will be even more exciting, with all teams returning with renewed energy and passion,” she said.

For champions Manyame Falcons HC and Manyame Sparrows HC, the evening was a culmination of hard work, discipline, and teamwork. Their triumphs were a powerful reminder of the heights that can be achieved through determination and unity.

As the night drew to a close, the NRHL community reflected on the achievements of the season and the road ahead. With the success of its first awards ceremony, the league has laid a strong foundation for growth, promising even greater heights in 2025 and beyond.