An academy dream come true

SOON after celebrating his 29th birthday last Wednesday, Beta Queens head coach Tatenda “Ninja” Shinya realised a long-cherished dream.

Shinya’s always wanted to launch a netball academy before turning 30 — and he will be doing so this December.

Green Starts Netball Academy at Girls High School in Harare, will also train aspiring coaches.

Shinya said the main purpose of setting up the academy was to unearth talent and create professionals.

Part of the curriculum will groom players off the court and offer career guidance in preparation for life after sport.

“The idea of an academy came during my high school years at Glen View 1 High after I had quit soccer due to a knee injury. Through a friend, I developed a passion for netball,” he said.

“Many criticised my choice but I told myself that before turning 30, against the odds I should have set up an academy to strengthen the grassroots,” said the former Infords FC player.

Shinya’s academy will concentrate on the 11-19 age group of players and will scout for raw talent at primary and secondary schools around Zimbabwe, offering both full and part-time programmes.

The gaffer — who has mentored big names like national team goal attacker Ursula Ndlovu — says his objective is to change the face of Zimbabwean netball.

“I want the first player who will play international to come from my efforts. That is my dream for our netball,” said coach Shinya.