The Copper Queens are headed to Namibia with the intention of keeping hold of the Africa Netball Cup, says Netball Zambia secretary general Pritchard Ngoma.
The premier continental tournament takes place at Swakopmund from 9 to 14 December.
In an exclusive interview with The Namibian Sport this week, Ngoma expressed optimism and confidence that Zambia will again bring their A-game to the 10-team competition.
Buoyed by capturing the title in Botswana last year, Zambia has capitalised on that momentum by substantially investing in their netball development initiatives.
This approach is designed to ensure that they remain among the top nations in Africa and beyond, Ngoma said.
“Well, it’s been a positive response from our athletes. We embarked on a different strategy from 2018, where we remodelled our structure and were able to develop hubs across all regions,” Ngoma explained.
“So, the sport is not only active in the line of rail, but it’s across the country. We have youthful players coming up through the different structures with clear pathways set out, including officials. It’s been a positive response, and winning the African Championship is just the icing on the cake,” he continued.
“I think value is that once you structure or do things strategically, you’ll be able to achieve positive results.
“And that’s a value addition that we’ve had in Zambia. Whether we’re under pressure or not, I don’t think we’re under pressure to title.”
The Copper Queens have resumed preparations for the Africa Cup, assembling a squad of six youth promoted from the under-21 side and nine experienced campaigners, who were part of the title-winning team.
Veteran player Diana Banda, a decorated star in Zambian netball, has made a remarkable return at the age of 45 and is expected to provide leadership and guidance to the younger players.
Captain Beauty Nakazwe, the standout shooter from the previous tournament, and Elizabeth Bwalya, the best midcourt player, will also play pivotal roles in the team’s campaign.
Striking this balance is part of the strategy of maintaining the Copper Queens competitive edge, Ngoma noted.
“We deservedly won this title and we’ll defend it. We have a team that is blended with both active and elite and under-21 youthful players,” said Ngoma.
“Hopefully, we take the title again. We want to bring the youth into the team because we know they’re the ones that will take over the future mantle of this team. And they qualified last year for the World Cup, the World Youth Under-21 World Cup,” he said.
“So, it’ll be a good experience for them in the team and to see what they’ll be able to offer.”
Assistant coach Martha Kafupu says preparations are progressing well and the team was focused on defending its continental crown.
“Preparations are progressing very well, we have 23 players in camp and the girls are putting in their best. We have to defend our title, that’s our expectation. We want to bring the title back home,” Kafupu told News Diggers.
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