Kukoma Diamonds laud third export
Giants Kukoma Diamonds have blown their own trumpet, hailing the team’s structures after becoming the first local team to export three players overseas.
Diamonds Chairperson Lumbani Mtonyowas all smiles after the team’s captain Caroline Mtukule- Ngwira signed a season-long deal with Vitality Netball Superleague side Team Bath in the United Kingdom.
Mtonyo said Diamonds have strong developmental structures, hence producing top players.
“It is not surprising that we are exporting more players. We have sound developmental structures, which helps. Morale is high. Everyone is excited and motivated to work hard. It means a lot to the team. This is no mean achievement. This will promote hard work in the team,” she said.
Mtonyo tipped Mtukule to succeed at Team Bath due to her work ethic and never-die spirit.
“Carol is a great defender, who is strong at the back, and starts moves from the defence to supply balls to attackers,” she said.
She said the team will endeavour to export more players.
“Kukoma remains a team to reckon with. The only team which has sent three players outside the country. We are really proud of ourselves as this will motivate the rest of the players,” Mtonyo said.
Mtukule has followed the footsteps of former Diamonds teammates Towera Vinkhumbo and Mwawi Kumwenda- Mbwana who clinched deals.
Vinkhumbo left Diamonds in 2020 when she joined Severn Stars in the UK before joining Strathclyde Sirens while Mwawi moved from the team when it was known as Escom Sisters in 2011.
She joined Peninsula Waves in Australia before moving to Victorian Fury in 2013. She then played for Mainland Tactix in New Zealand from 2014 to 2016. She briefly made appearances for Diamonds in 2015 before joining Melbourne Vixens to date.
