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Shelly Guni recently in BULAWAYO

PREMIER Netball League chairperson, Thabiso Mokoena, says the official launch tournament, held at White City Stadium on Saturday, was a huge success.

PNL, an independent league, was successfully registered with the Zimbabwe Netball Association, in June, this year.

Eighteen teams took part in the tournament.

Platinum Queens were crowned champions, after a 26-16 win, over Goldreef Queens, in the final.

ZDF secured a bronze medal, after being knocked out in the semi-finals, by Platinum ,in a thrilling encounter.

ZINA president, Letitia Chipandu, was the guest of honour.

“I must give credit to the sacrifices towards the staging of this tournament. It has been a success,” Mokoena said.

“We understand our commitment to the young women in sport.

“I want to congratulate all teams that have participated today.

“And, to the club sponsors, for seeing the need to support our female athletes.

“Sponsorship, as we stated earlier, is not a right but a privilege, in these trying economic times.’’

PNL chief executive, Freedom Tivagare, said they aim to bring competitiveness and netball development.

“Our netball shall develop into a vibrant sports industry, by working with partners, to bring the best out of our societies.

“Together, with my executive members, we are raring to go, as the new begining is upon us.

“We are going to provide the professional administration that will inspire confidence in the sport.

“Our board of governors shall provide the oversight and steer the direction of PNL.”

Chipandu was impressed with the turnout.

“You can see, with the turn out, that it is a very huge success,’’ she said.

“There is going to be interest that is going to be generated among the netball players so that they aspire to get into the proffesional league.

‘’I don’t think there is anybody who would want to play in something else, expect the professional league.’’

Final standings

Platinum

Goldreef

ZDF

Black Rhinos

Green Fuel

Waterfalls

National Under18

Harare City

University of Zimbabwe

Agape

HQ Bulawayo

Masvingo City Stars

Belvedere Technical Teachers College

Masvingo Pirates

Bulawayo Stars

Beitbridge

Masvingo City Stars