Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
TEAM Manicaland, comprising Under-16 and 14 boys and girls, made light work of their Masvingo counterparts in the opening round of the BancABC Roots Impact Programme matches played at Victoria High School in Masvingo.
The BancABC Roots Impact Programme, in which all provinces are represented, is aimed at transforming youth football in Zimbabwe through a structured, nationwide development pathway.
In the opening round, Manicaland Under-14 boys walloped Masvingo 7-0, while their girls’ counterparts also dominated with a 5-0 victory.
The Manicaland Under-16 boys edged Masvingo 1-0, and the girls beat Masvingo 4-1. Manicaland is using Masvingo as its centrally located home ground, which is why the province hosted Masvingo in this first round of matches, albeit in Masvingo.
In an interview, ZIFA Manicaland board member responsible for junior development, Frank Bhunu, commended Team Manicaland for a spirited performance.
“I would like to formally commend Manicaland Provincial teams for their outstanding achievements in winning all their matches across every age group at the BancABC Roots Impact Programme last weekend.
“This remarkable performance is a clear reflection of the hard work, commitment, and dedication demonstrated by our coaches and their technical teams, who have worked tirelessly and beyond expectation. I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the province, parents, clubs, academies, schools, NAPH, and NASH for their unwavering support and for playing a vital role in ensuring that our young players are able to participate and perform at their best,” he said.
Bhunu said the safety of minors during the competition is guaranteed.
“As we regroup on July 18, in preparation for Match Days Two and Three, our priority will be to build on this excellent start, address the areas where improvement is needed, and ensure that we continue on the right path. In my capacity as the CAF safeguarding instructor for Manicaland, I also wish to reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all children and to ensuring that they are safe before, during, and after every match,” said Bhunu.
