ROSELINE MUTARE
GWERU- Driven by a deep passion for volleyball and a desire to empower the youth, Dr Hugh Mangeya has opened a volleyball academy in Mkoba 14.
The academy opened its doors to the public in august this year.
Dr Mangeya said his main goal is to introduce the primary school pupils of Mkoba to the basics of volleyball, nurturing their talent and igniting their passion for the sport.
With unwavering determination, Dr Mangeya tirelessly worked to make his dream a reality. He reached out to the local schools, spreading the word about the academy and inviting the young ones to join.
“As weeks will turn into months, the children’s passion for volleyball will grow exponentially. They spend their free time practicing, honing their skills with determination as the academy will become a skills development hub and fostering friendship among the young athletes,” Dr Mangeya said.
The primary school pupils of Mkoba flocked to the academy, curious and eager to explore the world of volleyball recently where Dr. Mangeya greeted them with a fatherly and warm welcome.
The hope is to the primary school pupils of Mkoba into skilled volleyball players with a passion for the sport.
Under Dr. Mangeya’s guidance, the young athletes are learning the fundamentals of volleyball – from serving and passing to setting and spiking.
“It’s not just about the technical skills that we impart to them, it also includes the importance of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance both on and off the court”, he said.
However, Dr Mangeya bemoaned the state of the once well maintained recreational facilities and the way they have been neglected of late.
‘The recreational areas have been turned into residential stands or agricultural fields depriving young athletes of their rightful place where they should spend time at As a result children are now found playing everywhere even in the highways risking their lives,” added Dr Mangeya.
Dr Mangeya called upon Gweru City Council to protect the recreational places so that kids have safe places to play.
