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Allen Khumalo, Sports Reporter
THE Community Sports and Recreational Development Programme (CSRDP) is expected to kick off at inter-ward level next week.

Following a successful launch of the programme last month at Emakhandeni grounds, CSRDP secretary Morris Mukwiti said it is now time to implement their plan of developing sports at grassroots level.

The programme will see teams from Mzilikazi district’s 22 wards competing in various sporting codes which include boxing, soccer, netball, volleyball, athletics, darts, tug of war, tennis, chess, cricket, wushu, taekwondo and handball.

“Since we received a huge turn-out that was just beyond our expectations at the launch of the programme last month, residents have been asking when the programme will start. I am glad to announce that their wishes have been granted and the community games programme will kick off next week on Saturday.

“We believe this is a suitable date in order to accommodate everyone as school children will be back from holidays,” Mukwiti said.

He said the games will present coaches and scouts with a wide pool from which to select players for different clubs and the national team.

“There is a lot of unidentified talent that needs to be nurtured and put into good use in Bulawayo. As a country I think coaches’ eyes are so narrow when it comes to selecting players for their teams.

“If only they are able to widen their selecting criteria we will be able to uncover future stars. I therefore urge all scouts and coaches to attend these inter-ward games so that they will be able to uncover hidden talent and help nurture promising athletes,” Mukwiti said.

He believes the CSRDP is a right step towards the revival of sports in Bulawayo.

The CSRDP is an effective platform for stimulating mass participation in sport and recreation by all people including youth, women, persons with disabilities and elderly in order to address issues of discipline, employment, patriotism, gender, healthy lifestyles, and tolerance of difference, community development and social cohesion thereby contributing towards the economy of the country.

@khumzallen