Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Sports Reporter
The Bulldogs Handball Club is set to spike excitement in Beitbridge as it hosts its inaugural tournament from August 30–31, 2025, at Vhembe High School.
This event marks the first major handball competition to be staged in the border town, a historic rally for both the sport and the community.
The tournament will see clubs from across Zimbabwe hit the court, aiming to block their opponents and set themselves up for victory. Open to both seasoned sides and rising teams seeking competitive exposure, the event offers a full weekend of fast-paced action and fierce rallies.
According to Samson “LUCA” Mapako, Bulldogs Handball Academy Founder, the motivation to host the tournament came from the impressive performances by Beitbridge schools at both provincial and national handball competitions.
Beitbridge has dominated Matabeleland South for two consecutive years across all age groups, with Vhembe High and St Joseph’s Secondary securing bronze medals at the NASH U20 nationals in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
”We have seen consistent talent in Beitbridge. After watching local schools perform so well nationally, we felt the need to sustain that momentum through tournaments that groom our players and expose them to high-level club competition,” said Mapako.
This tournament will be the first major handball event to take place in Beitbridge. Mapako emphasized that the tournament would not only generate excitement but also provide a valuable platform for junior players to gain experience by observing and competing against elite teams.
”It’s the first of its kind in Beitbridge and brings with it joy, excitement, and most importantly, exposure for our juniors to see and face some of the best handball talent in Zimbabwe,” he explained.
Mapako promised thrilling matches, highlighting that top-tier clubs will be competing. Teams like Ajax from Bulawayo, Bluewood HC from Masvingo, and Harare-based sides such as Black Rhinos HC and Manyame will be part of the action.
”Fans and players can expect top-quality handball. With clubs from all over the country coming to Beitbridge, this will be one of the best handball tournaments the town has ever hosted.”
Teams will pay an affiliation fee of US$50 to compete, with the tournament featuring not only team trophies and medals but also individual accolades, a dig at recognizing standout players who bring their A-game.
With local and national interest already building momentum, the Bulldogs’ initiative looks to ace its goals of promoting grassroots development and boosting sports tourism in Beitbridge.
The tournament will act as a platform for young athletes to sharpen their skills and gain experience against top-tier opponents.
More than just a serve into the unknown, this event hopes to volley Beitbridge into the spotlight, not only elevating handball’s profile in the region but also strengthening cross-border sporting ties with neighboring countries like South Africa.
As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on Beitbridge for what promises to be a high-energy weekend of tactical plays, defensive digs, and game-winning spikes.
Contact for registration is through S. Mapako (077 156 7896).
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