Exciting Updates in the World of Sports
basketball: Smatchin Tournament Returns in 2025
Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated 11th edition of the inter-institute basketball tournament, “Smatchin,” is set to unfold from March 8 to 16, 2025, at the iconic Mahamasina Sports Palace. This annual event, renowned for its electrifying atmosphere, will once again showcase the finest university teams competing for glory. Fans can expect a blend of fierce competition and vibrant celebrations, making it a must-attend event for basketball enthusiasts.
Volleyball: A Loss for the Malagasy Community
The Malagasy volleyball community is grieving the loss of Angela Rasamiarisoa, affectionately known as Louloute, who passed away on Sunday. As the vice-president of the Atsinanana regional volleyball league, Angela battled kidney cancer for several years before succumbing to the illness. Her legacy as a former player for Stella Marius, Jirama, and Stef’auto will be remembered fondly. The Malagasy Volleyball Federation has extended its heartfelt condolences to her family during this arduous time.
Afrobasket Men: Rising Star Mathias M’Madi Ready to Shine
Mathias M’Madi, a standout player from the U18 Afrobasket 2022, has expressed his pride and honor at being named among the 18 players preselected for the third qualifying window of Afrobasket Men 2025. The event will be held at the Mahamasina Sports Palace from February 21 to 23. Mathias, who was crowned MVP and top scorer in the U18 tournament, is set to make his debut in senior-level matches, promising an exciting performance for fans.
Judo: A Deep Dive into Malagasy Judo History
Master Jean Patrice Ratsimiketraka Ramahefarison, a 5th dan black belt and international referee, has unveiled a notable contribution to the history of malagasy judo with his latest publication, “Ny tantaran’ny Judo malagasy, Volume 1.” Released this weekend, the book is the culmination of years of meticulous research, offering readers an immersive journey into the evolution of the sport in Madagascar. The first volume is now available to judo leagues across the country, and contributions for Volume 2 are being actively sought from masters and judokas to further enrich this collective endeavor.
Exclusive Interview wiht Mathias M’Madi: Rising Star of Afrobasket Men 2025
Moderator: Welcome, Mathias! It’s a pleasure to have you here today. You’ve been making waves in the basketball scene, especially after your standout performance in the U18 Afrobasket 2022. Now,you’re gearing up for the senior-level Afrobasket Men 2025. How does it feel to be preselected for such a prestigious event?
Mathias M’Madi: Thank you for having me! It’s an incredible honor. Being named among the 18 preselected players for Afrobasket Men 2025 is a dream come true. I’ve worked hard to get here, and I’m ready to give my all for the team and the fans.
Moderator: Your performance in the U18 tournament was phenomenal—MVP and top scorer! What lessons have you carried forward from that experience into this senior-level challenge?
Mathias M’madi: The U18 tournament taught me the importance of teamwork, discipline, and mental toughness. At the senior level, the competition is even fiercer, and the stakes are higher. I’ve been focusing on improving my physical strength and refining my skills to adapt to this new challenge.
Moderator: The event will take place at the mahamasina Sports Palace, a venue with a rich history in Malagasy sports. Do you feel any added pressure performing on such a grand stage?
Mathias M’Madi: The mahamasina Sports Palace is iconic, and playing there is both a privilege and a responsibility. While there is pressure, I see it as motivation to deliver my best performance. The energy from the fans at mahamasina is unparalleled, and I’m excited to soak it all in.
Moderator: Let’s shift gears a bit. The Smatchin Basketball Tournament is returning in March 2025. As a young athlete, how notable is this tournament for nurturing talent in Madagascar?
mathias M’Madi: The Smatchin Tournament is a cornerstone for developing basketball talent in Madagascar. It provides a platform for university teams to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. I believe it’s events like these that inspire the next generation of players and keep the sport thriving in our country.
Moderator: That’s a great perspective. now, I’d like to address the recent loss in the Malagasy volleyball community—Angela Rasamiarisoa, affectionately known as Louloute. As someone in the sports world,how do you feel such losses impact the community?
Mathias M’Madi: It’s a heartbreaking loss. Angela was not just a talented player but also a dedicated leader in the volleyball community. Her passing is a reminder of the impact athletes can have beyond the court. It’s significant for us to honor her legacy by continuing to support and uplift one another in the sports community.
Moderator: Master Jean Patrice Ratsimiketraka Ramahefarison recently released a book on the history of Malagasy judo. As a basketball player, do you see value in documenting the history of sports in Madagascar?
Mathias M’Madi: Absolutely. Documenting the history of sports is crucial for preserving our heritage and inspiring future generations. Master Jean Patrice’s work is a testament to the rich culture of judo in Madagascar. I hope similar efforts are made for other sports, including basketball, to celebrate our achievements and learn from our journey.
Moderator: Well said, Mathias. As we wrap up, what message do you have for the fans who will be cheering for you at Afrobasket Men 2025?
Mathias M’madi: To all the fans, thank you for your unwavering support. your encouragement means the world to me. I promise to give my absolute best on the court and make you proud. Let’s make this tournament unforgettable!
Moderator: Thank you, Mathias, for sharing your insights and inspiring us with your passion. We’ll be rooting for you at Afrobasket Men 2025!
Call to Action:
What are your thoughts on mathias M’Madi’s journey and the upcoming Afrobasket Men 2025? Do you think events like the Smatchin Tournament are essential for nurturing talent? Share your opinions in the comments below and let’s discuss!
This interview highlights key sports updates while fostering engagement with fans and encouraging a deeper conversation about the future of Malagasy sports.
