Story by Mntungwa Mthokozisi
Bulawayo – Lycans Volleyball Club secured the Bulawayo Volleyball Association (BVA) Premier League Championship title for the first time since their formation in 2019. The closing matches were held at Luveve High in Bulawayo on the 19th of October. Soon after its formation and registration into the BVA activities in 2019, Lycans’ progress was severely hampered by the COVID-19 lockdown. However, their love for the sport did not wither as evidenced by the number of tournaments they participated including those that were organised by the Matabeleland South Volleyball Association.
In their run-up to the BVA title, Lycans met perennial rivals Chimoio in a semi-finals thriller that saw Lycans prevail 3 sets to 2. In the first set, Lycans dislodged Chimoio 25 points to 22 with Chimoio returning fire with a second set win of 25 points to 18. All seemed to be game set and match when Chimoio won the third set by 25 points to 20, however, Lycans staged what will go down as the greatest comeback of their lives when they won the forth set 25 points to 21 to go on and record a convincing 15 points to 9 victory in the deciding set. Their semi-final comeback seemed to have brought zeal and enthusiasm to the players as they steam-rolled past Raiders in the final with a 3-1 convincing victory with set scores of 25-19, 25-15, 18-25 and 27-25. Lycans win was attributed to a collective spirited performance from players and the technical team. Key players and contributions came from Tapelo for her exceptional leadership and skill, Kayler, the most valuable and industrious player, Sibo’s airtight blocking skills, Fideh’s versatility and adaptability to changes in play, Nyasha and Rejoe’s precise setting, Yvonne’s powerful and precise attack hits, Mem Masuku’s experience and stability, Noma’s crucial defensive skills and not forgetting MaNgwe’s exceptional libero skills.
Lycans’ victory is a testament of their hard work, dedication, and unity. Their participation in extra tournaments falling outside their province especially those organised by Matabeleland South Volleyball Association enhanced their experience thereby improving their adaptability to different types of opponents. When asked for comment, the elated Fr James attributed the team’s success to “their tireless efforts and sacrifices…. we’re proud of our achievement and look forward to continued growth.”
You can follow the goings-on in the Bulawayo Volleyball Association via their social media handles on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Meanwhile, focus is on the 2024 MSVA League Match Day 5 to be held on the 2nd of November in Beitbridge. A hectic month of volleyball festivities is expected in Beitbridge because two weeks later, on the 16-17 November, the Beitbridge Eagles Sports Trust will host a volleyball tournament that will feature several clubs from the province and beyond.
MSVA Media Team
