By Vinjeru Ngwira
Mzuzu, August 21, 2023 – The North East Education Division (NEED) commenced its much-anticipated regional finals of the Malawi School Sports Association (MASSA) games. The event brought together schools from the division, including Mzimba North, Mzimba South, Mzuzu City, NkhataBay, and Likoma, to compete for the coveted 2023 championship titles.
The opening day showcased remarkable talents as teams engaged in spirited competitions, each striving to secure victory. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation as athletes prepared to face the challenges ahead.
Girls’ netball primary school saw Mzimba South advance to the finals by defeating Likoma with a score of 19-9. The next matchup would feature Mzimba North against Mzuzu City, scheduled for Thursday at the Moyale Ground. In secondary school Girls’ netball, Mzuzu City would take on Likoma, while Mzimba South would battle Mzimba North in the semifinals.
In Boys’ primary school football, Mzuzu City secured their finals spot by defeating NkhataBay 3-0. A forthcoming match between Mzimba North and Mzimba South was anticipated at the Mzuzu Government Secondary School ground.
Mzimba South triumphed in Boys’ secondary school football, clinching a finals berth after a tense 3-2 penalty shootout against NkhataBay. Another semifinal was set for Tuesday, featuring Mzuzu City and Mzimba South at the RTC Ground.
The Girl Soccer competition awaited the clash between Mzuzu City and Mzimba North.
Edmond Chakwira, NED Sports Desk Officer, expressed excitement about the tournament, emphasizing its role in identifying exceptional youth talents. These talents would go on to represent the North East Education Division at the National finals of the MASSA games in Lilongwe on August 28. Challenges in preparation were acknowledged, including the impact of the holiday season on the participation of targeted youth groups.
Malawi Netball Team Coach Samuel Kanyenda also welcomed the tournament’s potential to foster strong teams and nurture sporting excellence. As the MASSA games continued, the community eagerly anticipated the emergence of champions and the lasting impact on the region’s sporting landscape.