Malawi Queens coach warns on preps
Malawi Queens coach Peace Chawinga-Kaluwa says her troops must intensify preparations to restore their battered image.
Queens failed to win their first-ever Diamond Challenge title in South Africa last week when they twice lost to rivals in decisive matches. Queens lost to the host 33-43 in the first game and in the final, Malawi went down 35-40.
Their 51-40 win over 14th ranked Uganda was not convincing but they then hammered Zambia 60-34.
Now, Queens face another tough assignment when they travel to Botswana to take part in the Africa Netball Championship.
Queens surrendered the title on home soil in 2013 when South Africa staged master class performance at Blantyre Youth Centre.
Kaluwa said it was possible for her troops to reclaim the title but they need to get organised.
“There is need for fitness, conditioning, focus, mental toughness and concentration. The players must have these attributes. They had spirited performance and they were giving their all,” she said.
Kaluwa also warned against overloading the players with huge task with poor preparations.
“We should not overload them. They are given less time and are expected to deliver. We have seen our shortfalls yes, but if we don’t have the time and facilities to prepare we will remain at the same spot,” she said.
Kaluwa said it was important to start preparations for different assignments including the World Cup on time to avoid defeat.
Meanwhile, Queens arrived through Chileka Airport on Sunday. Airtel Malawi officials welcomed the team. Before departure, the firm through its brand Airtel Money donated K10 million towards the trip.
Airtel’s Cooperation Sales Officer, Richard Nkombezi, said they had to welcome the team to offer continued support following their performance at the just ended Diamond Netball Challenge.
“The results are not impressive as we wished, but you have managed to get second position. Regardless, we say well done for putting up a gallant fight. You gave out your best to claim that position.
“We do not want to highlight much of the low moments experienced during the tournaments. We believe experience is the best teacher and thereby, grants you the opportunity to put your house in order so that you can do better in your next assignment,” he said.
Nkombezi challenged Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) and national netball team players to turn the tables and re-write history by breaking into the top four.
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