Thunder Queens off to Airtel Money finals as destitutes
Financial problems have forced Thunder Queens, one of the finalists at this year’s Airtel money netball competition national finals scheduled to throw off on Thursday in Lilongwe.
Thunder Queens who recently were on a campaign to fundraise for their trip to Lilongwe could not find money to hire a bus for the trip.
Speaking to Nyasa Times before their departure, Team Manager for Thunder Queens Anne Kapatuka said they had exhausted their efforts of knocking on the doors of the corporate world for support.
“We have tried our best to raise the funds for our trip to Lilongwe. Right now we only have K150, 000 which is far below our budget for the trip. Our total budget was K800, 000. We don’t know where we will put up in Lilongwe and where to get the food. However, we trust God that something will happen,” said Kapatuka.
On assertions that the financial problems would affect the team’s performance, Kapatuka brushed aside such suggestions and said the girls are focused and hope to fight the cup.
“We finished third in the presidential cup having beaten Blue Eagles sisters. This time around our goal is to go for the top spot. We don’t care whosoever we meet. We have been in similar situation before and we are not moved,” Kapatuka said.
In her remarks, team Captain Joana Kachilika conquered with Kapatuka and appealed for support despite being too late.
“We have a strong team and believe in ourselves. We want to make history in Lilongwe and despite all these financial hiccups, the girls are ready for the showdown. Mind you there is plenty of money at stake,” said Kachilika who also plays for the Malawi netball team, the Queens.
Meanwhile, during the draw, the team has been placed in group 3 alongside Kukoma Diamonds and Mimosa.
