HARARE – In a dazzling ceremony held over the weekend in Harare, Platinum Queens, the formidable netball team based in Zvishavane, celebrated their third consecutive victory as champions of the Nedbank-sponsored Premier Netball League.
The awards night recognized the outstanding achievements of individual players, coaches, and teams throughout the season.
Platinum Queens, under the guidance of head coach Simbarashe Mlambo, clinched the league title for the third consecutive year, showcasing their dominance in the Premier Netball League.
Mlambo received the Coach of the Year award for the third time, affirming his role in Platinum Queens’ consistent success.
The team’s budding goal shooter, Chipo Shoko, was honored as Shooter of the Year.
The Zvishavane-based side has been a force to reckon with since joining the Premier Netball League three years ago, transitioning from the Rainbow Amateur Netball League.
GreenFuel secured the league runners-up position, maintaining their status from the previous season, while Ngezi Platinum Queens earned the bronze medal.
However, individual awards were not limited to the champions.
Rising star Faith Mutero from Chisumbanje-based Ngezi Platinum Queens was crowned Player of the Season, demonstrating her exceptional skills and contribution to the team.
Upenyu Kelly Muyambo, a newcomer who recently debuted in the national team, was celebrated as the Players’ Player of the Season.
Nicole Muzanenhamo, a Gems shooter, received the People’s Choice Player of the Year award, adding to her accolades after winning Player of the Year in the past two seasons.
GreenFuel’s head coach, Sibonginkosi Dube, expressed joy at the team’s success, emphasizing that the numerous individual accolades reflect their dedication and promising future.
Dube stated, “Next year will be a better and more exciting story. The girls are young, some of them are still playing for the Young Gems while others just graduated into the seniors’ team, and I am happy with the journey so far.”
The awards ceremony also recognized players for discipline, with ZUPCO Queens’ captain Harusiyi Chitiva receiving the “Most Disciplined” player of the year award.
Taslima Mdimba from Ngezi Platinum Queens emerged as Player of the Year.
In additional team awards, Black Rhinos Queens earned the title of the Most Disciplined team, while FilChrist ZJC was crowned the Most Improved team.
The event showcased the remarkable talent and sportsmanship present in Zimbabwean netball, celebrating both individual excellence and team achievements throughout the Premier Netball League season.
