In a major boost for Malawian netball, NICO Group, in partnership with the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM), will launch the One NICO Top 12 National Netball Cup this Saturday at the Blantyre Sports Arena (formerly Blantyre Youth Centre).
The tournament marks an exciting new chapter for the sport, aimed at revitalising local competition and strengthening the national team, the Malawi Queens, as part of a broader rebuilding strategy.
NICO Group Corporate Affairs Manager, Mbumba Mlia-Ndasauka, said the cup launch is part of a K1 billion, three-year sponsorship package unveiled last year, with NICO committing K320 million in the first year, K330 million in the second year, and K350 million in the third year.
The structure of the sponsorship package covers supporting the Queens’ games, including international engagements, talent scouting and bringing in the club cup, the One NICO Top 12 Netball Cup, which will run from June to August.
“Through the tournament, we will be able to reach Malawians on financial management. It is not just about the game, but empowering all Malawians, including the netballers, to understand money matters so they can make informed financial decisions,” said Mlia-Ndasauka.
Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) President Vitumbiko Gubuduza shared optimism that the partnership and the cup will spur healthy competition to identify new talent at the club level.
“The NICO Top 12 National Netball Cup is designed to identify and nurture young talent, serving as a critical pathway for aspiring players to showcase their skills at club level. This initiative aims to strengthen the national team’s depth by creating a robust pipeline of talent,” said Gubuduza
She expressed gratitude for NICO Group’s unwavering support, saying securing sponsorship during these challenging economic times is a big achievement and highlights the importance of trust between sponsors and associations.
During the sponsorship handover last year, NICO’s Group Managing Director Vizenge Kumwenda, highlighted that the tournament is expected to provide a platform for girls and women to showcase their netball talents, promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy lifestyles.
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