Sifikile Ndlovu and the birth of Matebele Queens Handball Club

Rutendo Mazhindu

ZimNow Reporter

Sifikile "Fiefie" Ndlovu’s journey in handball began in 2009 when she transitioned from netball to the newly introduced sport at her school.

“I was actually playing netball at the time but got bullied there, so I decided to change sports as handball was just being introduced in the school,” she recalled.

It was a decision that sparked a remarkable journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and unwavering passion.

Her dedication paid off when she earned a scholarship in 2015 to complete her A-level studies at Danhamombe High School in Masvingo.

A year earlier, she had represented Zimbabwe at the Zone 6 Games in Zambia, an achievement she holds dear.

“Getting a scholarship and representing my country on an international stage are my proudest achievements so far. They proved to me that hard work and dedication can open doors,” she said.

Throughout her journey, Sifikile found inspiration from mentors who supported her dreams.

“Mr. Ngwenya, a lecturer at Bulawayo Polytechnic, pays school fees for students to help them pursue their studies, and Mr. Sithole, my headmaster at Danhamombe, gave girls like me opportunities to go back to school and travel for tournaments. His goal wasn’t just winning games but also promoting the education of the girl child,” she explained.

In 2024, Sifikile played for Bulawayo Polytechnic, a critical chapter in her growth as a handball player. However, 2025 marks an exciting new beginning for her and her teammates as they launch the Matebele Queens Handball Club.

“The main purpose of Matebele Queens is to promote the girl child and ensure that their voices are heard,” she shared with determination.

“We want to make sure it works out, and we are putting everything into making this dream a reality.”

The club’s mission is not just about handball but also about empowerment and education.

“This club isn’t just about winning games; it’s about building a strong foundation for the betterment of the girl child. We want to create a space where girls feel supported, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams,” Sifikile said.

Despite the excitement of this new endeavor, Sifikile acknowledged the challenges that come with building a career in handball.

“The biggest challenge is failing to find a sponsor to help with affiliation fees and transport to tournaments. This affects not just me but the handball board as a whole,” she explained. Yet, her resilience remains steadfast as she pushes forward to overcome these obstacles.

For Sifikile, handball is more than a sport—it’s a source of personal growth and a way to inspire others.

“It is special because it has motivated me to be a better person and has helped me choose a good life path. The love and care we have for each other as a handball family make it even more meaningful,” she said.

Off the court, Sifikile enjoys traveling and learning about other cultures, which broadens her perspective and enriches her life. “I love exploring new places and discovering what makes other cultures unique,” she said.

Her personality shines in her dual roles: on the court, she is focused and driven, while off the court, she is a bubbly and sociable team player.

Balancing her commitments takes careful planning. “During my off days from work, I make an effort to exercise and go to the gym. I also schedule time before tournaments to focus solely on training,” she explained, a testament to her discipline and dedication.

Sifikile is also a passionate advocate for the role of women in sports. “The role of women in sports today is inspiring. Women are breaking barriers, achieving milestones, and promoting empowerment, self-confidence, education, and health. This is despite the challenges of traditional stereotypes and unequal funding,” she stated.

Now, with the Matebele Queens Handball Club, Sifikile is turning her vision into reality. The club’s creation signals a new chapter in her career, one where she not only plays the game but also builds a legacy of empowerment for young women.

“We want to create a space where girls can thrive and know that they have the power to achieve their dreams,” she said.

Through her resilience, vision, and passion for the game, Sifikile "Fiefie" Ndlovu exemplifies the transformative power of sports.

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