By Rabecca Mumba
The Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) says the Malawi Queens are fully prepared for the upcoming Commonwealth Games following months of intensive training, international friendly matches and technical preparations.
NAM General Secretary, Yamikani Kauma said the association is satisfied with the team’s level of preparedness, describing the preparations as comprehensive and focused on ensuring the Queens compete effectively against the world’s best teams.
“We are satisfied with the team’s level of preparation. The players have undergone intensive training, participated in competitive friendly matches, and the final squad was selected on merit. We are confident that the Queens are ready to compete and represent Malawi with pride,” said Kauma.
Kauma said the engagement of expatriate coach Debbie Fuller has proved to be a worthwhile investment, noting that she has strengthened the team’s technical and tactical approach.
She said Fuller has introduced new coaching methods, enhanced the team’s tactical discipline and boosted players’ confidence, while also working closely with local coaches to transfer skills that will benefit Malawi netball in the long term.
Kauma said NAM, with support from the Government through the Malawi National Council of Sports, the Malawi Olympic Committee and the team’s sponsor, One NICO, ensured the Queens received adequate support throughout their preparations.
She said the support included training camps, international friendly matches, quality training facilities, transport, accommodation, medical services and player allowances.
“We appreciate the continued support from all our stakeholders, whose contributions have made these preparations possible,” she said.
Kauma said NAM expects the Malawi Queens to put up a strong performance at the Commonwealth Games and improve on previous results.
“Our expectation is that the Malawi Queens will compete strongly against the world’s best teams and improve on previous performances. We believe the team has the quality and determination to make the nation proud,” she said.
She added that beyond the Commonwealth Games, the association will continue implementing a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening Malawi’s competitiveness in international netball.
Kauma said the strategy focuses on investing in grassroots development, youth national teams, coach and umpire development, and increasing international exposure for the Malawi Queens.
She said these initiatives will help ensure Malawi remains one of Africa’s leading netball nations while sustaining its competitiveness on the global stage.
