Arubi to grace COPA Coca-Cola

where he honed his skills.
Organisers of the tournament indicated yesterday that they had invited the DeMbare goalkeeper both as a former student and in his capacity as the Reigning Soccer Star of the Year.
Arubi last night said he felt humbled by the honour.
He indicated that he still has memories as a former student of Manunure High and now a role model for the young boys.
“I still remember playing for Manunure High in the then Coca-Cola schools soccer tournament before it was re-branded. During those days I played alongside former Highlanders midfielder Stephen Alimenda,” Arubi said.
The Zimbabwe international also said he felt proud to be a COPA Coca-Cola soccer tournament product, he believes he was given opportunity to showcase his goalkeeping skills and the platform helped him catch the attention of scouts who follow such events. Arubi was voted the Goalkeeper of the tournament at the 2003 competition.
He then made it into the Zimbabwe Coca-Cola Dream Team as the captain and represented the country during the Coca-Cola Tri-Nations tournament, which involved Zambia and Malawi.
Arubi is hopeful that he will get a chance during today’s launch to give a few tips and advice to the schoolboys as he believes that one must stay focused and disciplined on and off the pitch.
“They have to stay away from drugs and listen to the coaches’ advice,’’ Arubi said.
The Dynamos goalkeeper who has previously turned out for Lancashire Steel and Highlanders bemoaned the fact that the majority of equally good young players sometimes fall by the wayside after failing to handle publicity.
The 26-year-old Arubi believes that despite the achievements he has recorded, he feels there is still a  lot of groundwork to be covered and a lot to learn.