Robyn Mhembere: The Rising Star of ZimHandball and...

Robyn Mhembere: The Rising Star of ZimHandball and Rugby

Patience Muchemwa

Senior Reporter

In the vibrant city of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, one young athlete is making waves in not one, but two dynamic sports—handball and rugby.

Robyn Mhembere’s journey into the world of sports began in primary school, but it wasn’t until later that she discovered the disciplines that would shape her career.

From a young age, Robyn’s passion for sports was evident. “I’ve always loved sports. In primary school, I played athletics, netball, soccer, and cricket,” she recalls. However, it wasn’t until high school that she stumbled upon handball, and it would soon become her first love.

“I went to watch handball for the first time when our school was hosting nationals. I was curious and intrigued by the sport, so I decided to give it a try,” Robyn explains. What started as curiosity blossomed into a deep passion for the game. Soon, handball became a pivotal part of her life.

Rugby, on the other hand, entered Robyn's life by sheer chance. “I joined rugby simply because the team was short of players. They brought in athletes from other sports, and I ended up being selected for the national team on my first tryout!” she laughs. Despite initial hesitation, Robyn embraced the challenge and discovered her potential in the sport.

While many athletes find it difficult to balance multiple disciplines, Robyn has managed to thrive in both handball and rugby. “I decided to focus on handball and rugby because their training schedules fit into my daily routine. These sports became more than just a passion for me—they became a part of who I am,” she says.

Although handball remains under-recognized in Zimbabwe, Robyn’s commitment to the sport is unwavering. “Handball comes first for me, even though it’s not as popular in Zimbabwe. It was my first love, and that passion drives me every day,” she affirms.

Being a female athlete in Zimbabwe comes with its challenges, but Robyn remains resilient. “There are definitely challenges, but the support I receive from my coaches and teammates helps me overcome them,” she explains. It’s this support that fuels her determination.

Robyn’s greatest achievement to date isn’t just her success on the field, but the inspiration she offers to others. “My proudest moment has been making my family proud and inspiring younger athletes in my community. Knowing that I’m a role model to the next generation keeps me going,” she says.

Looking ahead, Robyn has ambitious goals. “I dream of competing at the Olympics and representing Zimbabwe at the World Cup. These are the milestones I aim for in both handball and rugby,” she declares.

Her message to aspiring female athletes is simple yet powerful: “It’s never too late to pursue your dreams. With hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Don’t give up—keep pushing forward!”