derick.khumalo
Innocent Kurira
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LEGENDARY Highlanders youth coach Ali “Baba” Dube, known for producing generations of Zimbabwean football stars, has received a major boost after Harris Group of Hotels and Lodges committed to supporting his football academy.
Ali Baba has built a reputation as one of the country’s finest talent developers, helping shape the careers of football greats including the Ndlovu brothers, Willard Khumalo and Mercedes Sibanda.
His academy has now received welcome backing from Harris Group, which has pledged to provide transport for away matches, playing kits, footballs and food, easing the financial burden of running the developmental side.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Harris Group of Hotels and Lodges general manager Lwazilwenkosi Skuza urged the young players to embrace discipline if they hope to fulfil their football dreams.
“We are happy to support this initiative because we believe sport has the power to transform lives and create opportunities for young people. However, talent alone is not enough. Discipline, commitment and hard work are what will take you to the next level,” said Skuza.
He said supporting the academy was a continuation of the company’s commitment to investing in people and communities through sport.
An emotional Ali Baba thanked Harris Group for believing in his vision.
“I am truly humbled by this gesture. Running a football academy requires resources and there are times when it becomes difficult to meet the basic needs of the players. This support will make a huge difference and allow us to focus on developing talent. I hope more corporates will come on board because these youngsters are the future of Zimbabwean football,” he said.
The donation ceremony was attended by seasoned football administrator Omega Sibanda and Football Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Herbert Dick, whose presence highlighted the significance of the partnership.
The sponsorship is expected to strengthen the academy’s work of identifying and nurturing young footballers, ensuring that Ali Baba’s legacy of producing some of Zimbabwe’s finest talent continues for generations to come.
Online Reporter