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Blessed Katiyo in JOHANNESBURG
TWELVE underprivileged boys from Harare’s Southlea Park suburb realized their dream of playing football on the international scene after a successful tour of South Africa.
The twelve are members of Kenneth Chikunguru’s Blue Stars Soccer Academy, which is based in Southlea Park.
The trip was funded by the parents of the aspiring football stars and they used public transport for the journey.
“I am grateful for the support we got from the parents who used their own resources to fund the trip. It was an eye-opener for the boys to play in a foreign land for the first time in their lives.
“They were also exposed to top-class facilities,” said Chikunguru.
The team arrived in Johannesburg by road on April 12 and played three matches with other academies.
Their first match was against Cosmo City Academy, whom they thrashed 7-0.
The second match was against Randburg FC and Blue Stars again emerged 4-1 victors.
They then had a stern test when they faced Stars of Africa and the match ended in a 3-3 draw at Milpark.
“I am happy with the way the boys performed. We had a very small team and they gave a good account of themselves.
“There were some scouts who watched our games and we hope some of our boys will be snapped by the clubs here who have better resources.
“The experience gained is invaluable and we wish we could have more such trips,” said Chikunguru.
He singled out captain, Romeo Makanha, as one of the top players who has been instrumental in the team’s success.
“The travelling team comprised of players aged between 13 and 16 years. Keeping these boys on the field of play helps them stay away from vices such as drug and substance abuse,” added the coach.
The academy has a total of 45 players most of whom could not travel due to financial constraints.
“We are appealing to well-wishers who can help us get proper footballing equipment and training kits.
“We need to upgrade our training facilities and also need resources to travel for matches in far away towns such as Mutare,” said Chikunguru.
The team safely returned to Harare on Saturday evening.
TRAVELLING TEAM:
Romeo Makanha (captain), Joe Muchawaya, Munyaradzi Njini, Emmanuel Makonyere, Ashley Kativu, Anashe Rwizi, Tapiwa Mutendamambo, Lennon Munongi, Keith Hunda, Daniel Mashumba, Blessing Katsarapfuwa, Kenneth Chikunguru (coach)
Online Reporter