Embarrasing
Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) found itself in a tight spot after establishing on arrival in England that they forgot to carry the Malawi Queens’ uniform for the 2022 Olympic Games in Birmingham.
A source confided in The Nation that the situation forced NAM officials to press the panic buttons and they were bailed out by IntoSports, a sportswear shop which came to their rescue by donating two sets of uniforms on Tuesday.
Said the source: “It would appear there was a communication breakdown among the officials on who would be responsible for the uniforms as they were also expecting sets of uniforms from China which they had ordered using funds from Queens’ official sponsor FDH Bank plc.
“But by the time the team was leaving, the uniforms had not yet arrived and it was resolved to carry the old kit. Unfortunately, no one remembered.”
Malawi National Council of Sports spokesperson Edgar Ntulumbwa said they will demand an explanation from NAM on the issue.
He said: “If it indeed happened, then it is very unfortunate because when a team is travelling, one of the crucial things that you have to check are uniforms.
“We will follow up on the matter.”
NAM vice-president Chimwemwe Bakali yesterday said he would revert on the issue, but had not done so by press time at 3pm.
Meanwhile, the uniforms donated by IntoSports were expected to be sent yesterday ahead of the Queens’ first match against England’s Vitality Roses on Saturday.
Presenting the donation on Tuesday, IntoSports Lilongwe Branch manager Aniz Yusuf said the gesture is meant to motivate the team.
He said: “This gesture has been made considering the national netball team’s performance. They always put the country on the map.
“So, we thought it wise to give this donation as a way of motivating the players and also appreciating the role Netball Association of Malawi plays.”
Yusuf said the two sets of uniform, which are in national colours, are valued at K2 million.
NAM general secretary Isaac Chimwala, who received the uniforms alongside Queens’ reserve players Maggie Sikwese, Chifuniro Moses and Madalitso Mkandawire, thanked IntoSports for the donation.
He said: “These are quality sets of uniforms and will be an asset to the team. We are very appreciative of this gesture. This is a timely morale booster. It raises the spirits when you play while donning a new kit.”
“When they get the kit, they will be very excited.”
