The Democratic Republic of Congo's women's wheelchair basketball team, also known as the Léopards seniors dames, officially started their preparation for the 2027 World Cup on November 2 at the Kinshasa Martyrs Stadium gym. The team aims to be among the best in the world. The first training session included athletes from various provinces, including North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika, who joined their teammates from Kinshasa.
The gathering marks the beginning of a comprehensive program to strengthen team cohesion and prepare the players for the demands of the global competition. According to Gégé Kizubanata, president of the Congolese Wheelchair Basketball Federation (Fecobaf), the early start of training is part of a specific sporting ambition. The goal is to enable the Congolese team to secure a spot on the world podium.
Kizubanata expressed confidence in the team's financial and logistical support, citing attention from President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi and expected support from the government through the Ministry of Sports and Leisure. The team's preparation is not only about sports but also about national pride and resilience. Some players from Goma and Bukavu represent areas severely affected by insecurity, adding a special dimension to their commitment under national colors.
With several months of preparation ahead, the Congolese team plans to work on physical conditioning, collective cohesion, and technical and tactical automatisms. The 2027 World Cup, scheduled for June 11-17 in São Paulo, Brazil, will feature the best wheelchair basketball teams from around the world. The Congolese team is determined to make a strong impression and honor Congolese basketball on the international stage.
The team's ambition is not limited to participation; they aim to become one of the top teams in the world. The Léopards seniors dames have a tough road ahead, but their determination and resilience will be key factors in their success. The team's progress will be closely watched by fans and supporters back in the Congo.
As the team prepares for the World Cup, they are also aware of the challenges they face. However, with the support of the government, the Fecobaf, and the Congolese people, they are confident in their abilities. The team's journey to the World Cup is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and overcome adversity.
The 2027 World Cup will be a major milestone for the Congolese women's wheelchair basketball team. With hard work, dedication, and the right support, they aim to achieve their goal and make their country proud. The team's story is an inspiration to many, and their success will have a positive impact on the development of wheelchair basketball in the Congo.
Key points
- The Democratic Republic of Congo's women's wheelchair basketball team aims to become one of the world's top teams at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
