dyton mupawaenda
Bruce Chikuni
TELONE FC defender, Allan Chapinduka’ s football journey provides answers to the power of opportunity and dedication.
Just three months ago, the 19-year-old was on the verge of returning to AYSA Academy, disillusioned and uncertain about his future.
Chapinduka’ s journey began when he joined Harare City for trials, from AYSA Academy off an invitation from Jim Tigere who was the team’s fitness trainer.
However, fate had other plans as coach, Herbert Maruwa snubbed the Sunshine Boys who were in charge of their destiny in the ZIFA Northern Region Division One Soccer League.
It was established that he was given a better offer by the WIFI Boys who are running the risk of being swept away by the relegation waters.
The decision left Chapinduka stunned, but it proved to be a turning point in his career.
Maruwa had been tipped off about the youngster’s abilities by Tigere, who had spotted him playing for the Young Warriors U20 side in Malawi earlier this year.
This means it only took Chapinduka a week to impress Maruwa who went on to make the teenager a priority signing on his wish list after arriving at TelOne.
Chapinduka’s dedication and hard work quickly made him a standout player at the club winning Maruwa’s heart at the cost of experienced players.
His performances also caught the attention of ZIFA technical director, Jethro Hunidzarira, who included him in the Warriors squad for an exhibition match against ZDF.
The 1-0 win marked Chapinduka’s first national team medal, a remarkable achievement considering he had only made six appearances for TelOne prior to that match.
And, since he started playing, TelOne have lost just once as they have recorded four draws and a win.
Chapinduka’s praised Maruwa and AYSA Academy for believing in him.
He also hailed Simbarashe Hunde for weighing being supportive during the times he was down.
“I’m grateful to coach Maruwa for giving me a chance to prove myself and I’m struggling to believe my situation right now,” said Chapinduka.
“I’m grateful to God and I can’t thank coach Tigere enough for everything he did for this to become possible.
“AYSA Academy coaches laid the foundation, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to grow and develop as a player.”
As Chapinduka continues to soar, he told Zimpapers Sport his best wish.
“Growing up, I never imagined myself playing in lower leagues because I always believed that I had what it takes to play in the PSL and God made it possible.
“I want to do more to help my team to be in a respectable position on the league table.
“And, that’s the only way I can repay coach Maruwa for sacrificing a lot for me to be in this position,” he said.
TelOne are in the red zone sitting just two points off safety.
Online Reporter