Netball keeps me sane:Kahari
Blessing Kahari relishes having a “netball” in hand again when the Covid-19 restrictions are eased.
The Ngezi Platinum player says the current stoppage is frustrating.
“I’m a teacher by profession but netball for me keeps me sane. It’s my life and also a source of income,” she told H-Metro.
“Last year I was managing to do some workouts and training but the new lockdown measures has seen all activities suspended again so we can’t even train.
“It is so frustrating but there is nothing we can do: safety first,” she said.
During the lockdown, she daily sets aside time to reflect on how her career as a netball player has played out so far.
“Now is an excellent time to think where you are heading, what you have achieved and what you can do to improve.
“Inner reflection is usually something we intend to neglect as we are always rushing off to something urgently.”
Asked on what she needs to improve, she says:
“I think I need to improve on my defending. I was now concentrating on attacking and feeding the shooters. I also need to improve on my speed and strength.”
Kahari says she is now gaining some weight and also believes lack of match fitness will affect her in the long run. She hopes for the return of netball soon.
“It’s difficult for me to stay at home without training. To tell the truth I really miss the competition and even team training.
“This lockdown has been a major setback for me both at work and sport. For most players, they bank on winning bonuses amongst many other allowances and this inactivity has seen us struggling financially.”
Kahari, although she is yet to find out more about her contract, remains optimistic of the return of action soon.
“Suppose we resume action, I think I’m at a better place now considering that last year I was having little training,” she says.
She however, acknowledged the effects of the deadly pandemic and urged all other players to adhere to the regulations set by the authorities.
“This pandemic has cost us a lot. Everything now on halt but I just pray God will see us through this phase. We just need to play our part and follow all instructions.”