ZIMBABWE Sables’ triumphant return home from their HISTORIC Rugby Africa Cup victory in Uganda in July has set off a rugby renaissance across the nation, and nowhere was that more evident than in the Eastern Highlands city of Mutare.
Thousands of passionate fans flooded the streets of Mutare on Monday to catch a glimpse of the Sables and the gleaming trophy they brought back, serving as a symbol of Zimbabwe’s rugby resurgence. The jubilant scenes underscored just how much this Africa Cup triumph has resonated with the Zimbabwean public.
“Sometimes we forget how big winning in Uganda was to the people in Zimbabwe,” Tadiwa Gwashu, Mutare based Sables forward said.
“Coming back to Mutare Sports Club brings good memories, and the smiles and words of love from the streets warm my heart. It’s a reminder for me and the boys that when we are on the field, it’s not just about us the players, but the millions of people we represent back home.”
The festivities in Mutare kicked into high gear with a trophy parade led by the Zimbabwe National Army Brass Band, drawing enthusiastic crowds who lined the streets to cheer on their heroes.
But the celebration extended well beyond just a ceremonial march, as Mutare Sports Club hosted a lively Astra Rugby Festival that showcased the bright future of the sport in the region.
The festival featured a thrilling Senior B-team final between Mutare Sports Club and Old Christians, with the hosts emerging victorious 28-21 in a nail-biter that was decided in the final moments.
Midlands State University also got in on the action, defeating Africa University 31-12 in the 3rd place playoff match.
Peter Dobropoulos, whose father Nick helped construct Mutare Sports Club rugby field back in 1983 was moved to emotions by the event. The elder Dobropoulos’ legacy was celebrated at the festival, with the Dobropoulos Shield awarded to the winning team.
“It’s incredible coming to the ground. The last time we had a big visit like this was in the 90s when the British and Irish Barbarians and White Planes (USA) visited,” Dobropoulos said.
The outpouring of support in Mutare underscores the profound impact the Sables’ Africa Cup triumph has had across Zimbabwe.
As Zimbabwe Rugby Union Vice President (North) Tapfuma Parirenyatwa noted, “There was a fantastic procession in the streets of Mutare this morning, and there are plans, through the Mutare Provincial board, to get their facilities back to the standard that made legends here.”
With the Sables now set to face the United Arab Emirates and South Korea in November, the rugby fever gripping Zimbabwe shows no signs of abating.
If the rapturous reception in Mutare is any indication, the Sables can count on backing from an energised fan base as they continue their ascent on the international stage.
