Wersline Zvomuya: Passion, Perseverance, and the H...

Wersline Zvomuya: Passion, Perseverance, and the Handball Dream

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

In a world where sports are often male-dominated, women like Wersline Zvomuya are breaking barriers and redefining the narrative. A handball player with unmatched zeal, Wersline’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to the game she loves.

Her journey began in 2013 as a Form 1 student when she discovered her talent and love for handball. For two years, she honed her skills on the court before life led her to a new school. There, her focus shifted to netball, a sport she passionately played up to A-level.

However, the handball bug never truly left her. In January 2022, Wersline rekindled her love for the sport by joining the UZ Wildcats, the University of Zimbabwe's handball team.

“It wasn’t the plan initially,” Wersline admitted. “I had gone to the netball team, but I didn’t feel welcomed the way I expected. That’s when I decided to give handball another shot, and it turned out to be the best decision.”

Playing for the Wildcats has been nothing short of fulfilling. Wersline has represented her university in various tournaments, where her talent has shone brightly. In 2022, she was crowned Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the Zimbabwe Tertiary Institutions Sports (ZITS) tournament in Bulawayo. She also emerged as the top goal scorer in both the UZ tournament and the Northern Region League games, cementing her status as a force to be reckoned with in Zimbabwean handball.

“Playing for my school as a club is a big accomplishment for me. Traveling to tournaments, winning some games, and even losing others—each experience has been a learning curve. The awards are just a bonus,” she said with humility.

Wersline draws inspiration from local players, especially Fortunate Zisengwe of the Sparrows, whom she considers her role model.

“Fortunate is just awesome,” Wersline said. “She has this drive and energy that inspires me to keep pushing.”

However, the road hasn’t been easy. Handball in Zimbabwe faces significant challenges, chief among them a lack of financial support. Players often have to dig into their own pockets to cover expenses for kits, travel, and other essentials. Despite these obstacles, Wersline’s passion remains unwavering, thanks to the support of her coach, Valentine Masaiti.

“Coach Valentine is a pillar of support,” she said. “He ensures our needs are met as much as possible, and that keeps us going. We play because we love the sport. Handball has become more than a game—it’s a family, a form of therapy. When I’m feeling off, just attending a handball session makes a difference.”

While handball is her first love, Wersline still enjoys playing netball during vacations or breaks from handball. Balancing her demanding academic schedule with sports is no easy feat, but her love for the game keeps her motivated.

Off the court, Wersline is known for her warm and approachable personality.

“I’m a loving person, and I make an effort to get along with everyone,” she said. “I avoid quarrels with teammates and others because a strong team is built on unity.”

As women continue to make strides in sports, Wersline is grateful for the growing recognition of female athletes.

“It’s inspiring to see women being acknowledged in sports. We can now participate in any sport just as men do, and that’s something to celebrate.”

Wersline Zvomuya’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Despite the challenges, her love for handball and her unwavering determination continue to shine, inspiring a new generation of female athletes in Zimbabwe.