Support Unit crowned champs

SUPPORT Unit of Harare were crowned the men's 2017 African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB) Zone VI Club Volleyball Championship after beating the University of Zimbabwe 3-1 in Bulawayo on Saturday night.

Harare City beat the much fancied Botswana Defence Forces 3-1 in the final to win the women's category.

The last time Zimbabwe played host to the tournament in 2006, CBZ Jewels were crowned champions and the hosts' teams took advantage of their home ground status to win the southern African regional titles after years of coming close.

Support Unit were in a bullish mood throughout the competition, brushing aside their opponents right up to the all-Zimbabwe affair final.

Support Unit's Keith Machakaire was elated with the victory.

“It was a long road; we had a very successful tournament and the boys really played well from day one. Personally l had a tough tournament with an injury I suffered on the first day, but I am happy that I managed to come in and help the boys. We are happy with what we have achieved. The journey does not end here so we will keep working hard. Hopefully we will fly the country's flag high in Egypt at the Africa Championships,” said Machakaire.

The Harare City women's team continued with their fine run in the competition by dismissing Botswana Defence Forces in the final, but they had to come from a set down.

Harare City, Support Unit and UZ now proceed to the African Club Championships to be held in Egypt in 2018. Should they prevail, they will go on to represent the continent at the World Club Championships.