MSU Cobras Crowned Champions in the MidVA Heroes Tournament Debut

By Delicious Mathuthu

Gweru, Midlands Province - Midlands State University (MSU) Cobras volleyball team was crowned champions of the inaugural Midlands Volleyball Association (MidVA) Heroes Tournament held over the weekend at Mkoba Teachers College campus in Gweru.

The tournament, which was a resounding success, showcased the rising talent and passion for the sport in the city.

Four teams featured from the men's side, including hosts Mkoba Teachers College, the youthful Pathfinders Academy, Gweru City mostly composed of seasoned players and Midlands State University Cobras.

The event was graced by the presence of Mkoba South Member of Parliament, Honourable John Kuka, who provided trophies and medals for the winning teams.

Kuka expressed delight in seeing young people actively engaged in sports in the grassroots, noting that it helps keep them away from drug and substance abuse.

"What I liked most is seeing young people involved in sport. Sports help keep us occupied and protect us from drug and substance abuse," Hon. Kuka said.

"We encourage you to stay away from drugs because they destroy your health. As you grow from youth into adulthood, health is very important."

Former MidVA Chairperson, Sindiso Phiri, and the current MidVA Vice Chair responsible for competitions, Dr. Hugh Mangeya, were also in attendance.

In the closely contested tournament, the MSU Cobras emerged victorious, clinching the top spot with their captain, Edward Mazunga, being voted the Man of the Tournament.

Mazunga expressed joy, saying valuable lessons were learnt during the competition.

"I am happy that we became the first team to win this tournament. Even better, I am honoured to be named Man of the Tournament," Mazunga said.

"The tournament was very competitive and we learnt a lot, such as how to handle pressure, overcome challenges and improve our skills.

"Overall, we enjoyed playing, and uniting with other players fromthe Midlands. So, let's keep the ball flying!" He said.

Gweru City team secured the second place, while Pathfinders Academy and Mkoba Teachers College finished third and fourth, respectively.

Honourable Kuka pledged to continue supporting the growth of volleyball in the city, promising to sponsor more tournaments in the future.

Phiri said they are yet to secure sponsorship as MidVA for such competitions and the league, but players exhibited the spirit of unity.

"This is an annual tournament, and this year marked its beginning," Phiri said.

"We are still yet to secure a sponsor for the volleyball league. However, the youth who participated showed great care and maintained the spirit of unity," he added.

The tournament, though belated, is part of MidVA's efforts to celebrate Zimbabwe’s Heroes Holiday, observed annually on the second Monday of August, honouring men and women who sacrificed their lives in the liberation struggle.

It is marked by national and provincial commemorations, speeches, cultural events, and sporting tournaments, celebrating both fallen heroes and everyday citizens contributing to the nation’s progress.

Formed to govern and promote volleyball across the Midlands Province, MidVA has become a growing force in the sport.

In 2024 the association’s new leadership focused heavily on grassroots development, formalising its affiliation with both the Zimbabwe Volleyball Association (ZVA) and the Sports & Recreation Commission.

The same year, MidVA successfully organised its Premier Volleyball League, with both men’s and women’s teams competing, and held its end-of-season tournament at the same venue,Mkoba Teachers College, featuring six men’s teams and five from the ladies’ category.

Clubs like MSU Cobras and Diamonds represented the Midlands in the national Premier Volleyball League, showcasing the province’s growing competitiveness.