Brilliant PongoIn the heart of Bulawayo’s vibrant yet often overlooked Western Suburbs, a quiet revolution is taking place on the rugby field. Founded on a legacy of passion and dedication, the Western Suburbs Rugby Academy (WSRA) has been nurturing the next generation of Zimbabwean rugby talent, drawing from the underprivileged and marginalized communities of the city. Yet, despite its successes, the academy is facing immense challenges that threaten its very existence. Now, more than ever, WSRA is calling on corporate sponsors, philanthropists, and community leaders to rally behind its cause.
A Legacy of Passion
The origins of Western Suburbs Rugby date back to 1981, when Lou Corbi, a former Zimbabwe national rugby player, founded the first iteration of the club. His mission was clear: to bring rugby to Bulawayo’s high-density suburbs, giving children and youth a chance to experience the sport and the discipline it offers. His vision, supported by legendary figures like Francis Muhomba and George Mukorera, laid the groundwork for the academy’s development.
In 2009, the Western Suburbs Rugby Academy was formally established, with a mission to expand rugby’s reach in the city and provide a structured pathway for young athletes to pursue the sport. Despite the lack of resources, the academy has flourished, thanks to the dedication of its coaches and volunteers, all of whom work tirelessly to keep the dream alive.
The Struggles Beneath the Success
However, behind the scenes, the challenges have been daunting. Sponsorship is scarce, equipment is limited, and the cost of outfitting teams and covering travel expenses often falls on the shoulders of the academy’s volunteers. Coaches work for free, dedicating their time and expertise to ensure that these young athletes have the opportunity to train and compete.
“The biggest challenge has always been funding,” says Busani Ncube, CEO of WSRA. “We have the passion, the talent, and the commitment, but without proper sponsorship, we are constantly operating on the brink. Our equipment is outdated, and we often struggle to afford travel costs for competitions.”
In addition to financial struggles, the academy has faced resistance from some communities, where rugby is still seen as a rough and unfamiliar sport. Yet, the WSRA has pushed forward, determined to break down barriers and bring the sport to all, including girls, who are now an integral part of the academy’s programs.
Reaching for New Heights
Despite these hurdles, the academy has made incredible strides. Since upgrading to a full-time development hub in 2015, WSRA has produced a pipeline of talented players who have gone on to represent Zimbabwe at national and international levels. Names like Bornwel Gwinji, Kholwane Moyo, and Gardner Nechiringer have all emerged from WSRA’s ranks, proving that world-class talent can come from even the most disadvantaged backgrounds.
Yet, while these success stories are a testament to the academy’s effectiveness, the lack of resources continues to limit their potential. The academy’s training facilities are basic, and the lack of high-performance equipment hinders their ability to fully develop the skills of their athletes.
“We’ve shifted our focus to elite high performance, but our abilities are limited,” Ncube explains. “We need better equipment, better facilities, and more resources if we’re going to continue developing top-tier talent.”
A Call to Action
For WSRA, the mission is not just about developing rugby players—it’s about building futures. The academy provides a safe space for children to learn discipline, teamwork, and leadership. It’s a haven from the dangers of drugs and crime that plague many of Bulawayo’s high-density suburbs.
Parents and schools consistently report positive changes in the behavior and attitudes of the children involved in the academy. “The feedback we receive is overwhelmingly positive,” Ncube shares. “Parents tell us that their children are more disciplined, more respectful, and more focused, both on and off the field.”
But to continue this work, WSRA needs help. Corporate sponsors, businesses, and individuals are being urged to step forward and contribute to the academy’s growth and sustainability. Sponsorship is more than just a financial contribution—it’s an investment in the future of Zimbabwean rugby and in the lives of countless young people who may otherwise never have the chance to realize their potential.
The Way Forward
Looking ahead, WSRA has ambitious plans. Over the next 5 to 10 years, they aim to increase rugby participation across Bulawayo, expand their coaching venues, and elevate both male and female players to higher levels of competition. They envision a future where Bulawayo becomes a thriving hub of rugby talent, contributing to Zimbabwe’s success on the national and international stage.
But these dreams can only be realized with the right support. The academy is appealing for partnerships with local businesses, corporate sponsorships, and donations of equipment. Even small contributions can make a big difference in the lives of these young athletes.
“We are building more than just rugby players—we’re building future leaders, role models, and community figures,” says Ncube. “But we can’t do it alone. We need the support of the community, of businesses, of anyone who believes in the power of sport to transform lives.”
How You Can Help
To those interested in supporting the Western Suburbs Rugby Academy, the message is simple: your help is needed now more than ever. Whether through sponsorship, volunteering, or donations, your contribution can help ensure that this vital program continues to thrive.
For more information on how you can get involved, contact the Western Suburbs Rugby Academy directly.
busanincubetwo@gmail.com
Or via telephone +263776104570
Every bit of support counts in ensuring that this beacon of hope continues to shine brightly in the heart of Bulawayo.
