Harare, 30 March 2025 — Zimbabwe’s senior men’s rugby team, the Sables, were officially named Team of the Year at the 2025 Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA), held in Harare this past weekend. The accolade comes as a fitting tribute to a year defined by excellence, discipline, and national pride, as the Sables continue their rise on the continental and global stage.
After a stellar 2024 season that included emphatic wins, two Africa Cup titles, and a climb to 28th in the World Rugby Rankings—Zimbabwe’s highest position in a decade—the Sables’ efforts were recognised and celebrated by the wider sports community. The evening marked not just a victory for rugby, but a resounding moment for Zimbabwean sport.
Captain Hilton Mudariki, who led the squad with composure and vision throughout the year, expressed his delight at the honour:
“It’s a special feeling to win Team of the Year. It’s a true testament to how hard the team worked throughout 2024.”
Vice Captain Aiden Bennet, another standout performer over the past year, echoed this sentiment:
“I’m super proud and honoured by this achievement. I can’t wait for what the year ahead holds.”
For Brian Makamure, a powerful front rower and two-time Africa Cup winner, the moment was deeply rewarding:
“It’s great to be up here again and for the team to be getting the recognition that we deserve. Onto the main event!”
Vice Captain Kudzai Mashawi reflected on what the award meant to the team on a personal and national level:
“It’s an honour to be recognized for carrying your nation’s flag.”
The Sables’ remarkable run has been fuelled not just by talent, but by meticulous planning and management. Head Coach Pieter Benade, the architect behind the team’s structure and intensity, was humbled by the occasion:
“It’s amazing for the effort to be recognized and achievements to be celebrated. Now we’ve got a big job ahead—to make another special year happen that all Zimbabwean sports fans can be proud of.”
Team Manager Takunda ‘TJ’ Chifokoyo highlighted the broader impact of the award:
“What an incredible achievement. To be recognized by the greater sports community is a testament to the hard work that the boys put in. We are tremendously honoured to be the Team of the Year and look forward to making our nation proud again in 2025.”
The Sables’ success at the ANSA Awards not only validates the work done over the past year, but it also fuels excitement for what’s ahead. With a passionate fan base behind them and a clear vision for the future, Zimbabwe’s national rugby team is forging a path that inspires young athletes across the country.
As the team looks toward key international fixtures, including Rugby Africa competitions and World Cup qualification build-up, their status as Team of the Year will serve as both a badge of honour and a challenge to maintain excellence.
For now, the Sables celebrate—a team of warriors, brothers, and proud flag bearers of Zimbabwean sport.
