By Edwin Mbewe
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Proud sponsors of the Central Region Netball League, MPICO, a member of the Old Mutual group of companies, have reaffirmed their commitment to sponsoring the league.
During the season’s closing ceremony on Saturday, November 11, 2023, the Head of Property Services at MPICO, Jambo, expressed the company’s eagerness to continue its sponsorship.
He therefore commended the Central Region Netball Committee for their professional and transparent management of the tournament.
“We are delighted with the professional and transparent organization of the tournament by the committee. Our investment serves the government’s goals to support the girl child and attract visitors to the Gateway Mall, creating a mutually beneficial situation. Despite the COVID-19 hiatus, we are optimistic about the future and will continue our sponsorship,” said Jambo.
Despite facing logistical challenges with teams from different districts, Central Region Netball Committee Chairperson Cecilia Mtukule praised the league’s success.
Mtukule acknowledged the league’s role in nurturing new talent and credited it for the success of teams like Blue Eagles and Young Eagles in the Salima Sugar National League.
She expressed hope for more player contributions in the forthcoming African Championship, aligning with the league’s objectives.
Vice Chairman of the Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS), Charles Ulaya Banda, emphasized the value of corporate social responsibility in sports sponsorship. Banda appreciated MPICO’s support in the face of economic hardships, hinting at possible future sponsors for the upcoming season and acknowledging the benefits to both sports development and the companies’ market exposure.
The day’s events included a parade with the trophy and the conclusion of the league with three fixtures. Notably, Blue Eagles narrowly secured a 34-33 victory over Civonets, securing the championship with 64 points from 32 games.
The league, which ran for five months, saw Blue Eagles claim the top spot, securing MK3 million, with Civonets as runners-up, winning MK2.5 million.
Young Eagles and MAFCO soldiers secured MK1.5 million and MK1 million, respectively, for their placements.
DYNA Queens was recognized as the most improved team, while individual awards were presented, including Best Umpire to Sibongire Moyo and Best Scorer to Thoko Thala of Civonets.
The league showcased its young talent, awarding Shilla Nkhoma of DYNA Queens as the Young Player of the League.
Lusaka Mhango, Vanessa Chalira, Sally Nyasulu, and Vanessa Chalira received accolades for their respective roles, each awarded MK100,000 for their outstanding performance.
The league, initiated on June 24, 2023, involved 17 competing teams and spanned a five-month duration, promoting and nurturing netball talent in the region.
