by Mphatso Malidadi
Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) will continue recognising impressive administrators through the late James Gwaza memorial award.
The award was introduced last year as a pilot project in honour of Gwaza, who once served as general secretary for both Basmal and Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association of Malawi (now Malawi Olympic Committee).
Gwaza died last year after a short illness.
Basmal vice president Jacob Chikoya, speaking ahead of this years club national championship, said they have agreed with the Gwaza family to continue rewarding outstanding administrators.
“This award is sponsored by the Gwaza family. We have agreed that it should be running annually. We feel this award will inspire administrators to work hard in promoting the sport,” he said.
Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal) general secretary Hope Chisamanga was the first recipient of the award.
Chikoya said this year's outstanding administrator will get the shield at the end of the club championship.
The two-day tournament will start tomorrow (Friday) at African Bible College in Lilongwe.
Meanwhile, Chikoya said all was set for the championship.
“All the eight clubs have confirmed their participation,” he said.
The teams have been split into groups with Mimbulu, Bricks, Nkhulande and Blazers completing the first group.
Magang'a, Cougars, Pistons and Cobbe make up group B.
Champions will pocket K100,000 with runners-up getting K75,000 while the third placed will will receive K50,000.
Spectators wishing to watch the games on Saturday will have to pay K200.