The Sables, Zimbabwe’s national rugby team, recently acknowledged the pivotal role of Churchill High School in advancing the sport in the country.
Head Coach Pieter Benade, along with former players Kudzai Mashiwi, Takudzwa Kumadiro, and Tedious Hwata, visited the school to present the Africa Cup Trophy as a gesture of gratitude for its long-standing support.
Churchill High School, known as the Bulldogs, has been a dominant force in Zimbabwean rugby for over 30 years, producing notable talents like Tendai “The Beast” Mtawarira, a celebrated player for South Africa’s national team and a World Cup champion, alongside Sables representatives such as Prayer Chitenderu, Tangai Nemadire, and Denford Mutamangira.
Under coach Jeffrey Madhake, the school has developed many players who have gone on to represent the Sables.
The school’s Under-21 team, the Pitbulls, boasts five national championships, and its alumni have created a senior team currently positioned third in the Harare Provincial League.
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Benade highlighted Churchill High School’s vital role in developing rugby talent, stating, “The influence of Churchill on the rugby landscape is immense, not only through its players but also through those who go on to become journalists.
The school’s robust structure supports and channels players into the national framework, and it’s clear how many former students continue to engage with rugby at club and national levels.”
Madhake noted that the presentation recognized the significant, yet often overlooked, efforts that contribute to the school’s success in producing international rugby stars.
“This acknowledgment is appreciated because there’s a lot of hard work behind maintaining our high standards.
Most players on the Sables roster have roots at Churchill and Prince Edward School. While many private schools excel in rugby, fewer of their players return to represent the country compared to ours,” he remarked.
Mrs. Shoko, acting Head of School, reiterated Churchill’s commitment to rugby, emphasizing its integral role in the school’s culture.
She revealed plans to advocate for a reinstated mandatory rugby program for all Form One students.
As the Sables gear up for the upcoming Rugby World Cup, their collaboration with Churchill High School underscores the institution’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of rugby talent and enhancing the sport’s growth in Zimbabwe.
Takudzwa Kumadiro, who began his international career at the Under-19 level, shared that such visits reignite young players’ aspirations to represent their nation. “It reminds me of when I dreamed of making it to the Sables.
Visiting the school reinforces the importance of encouraging young talent, letting them know they are the future of our national team.”
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