Bob ‘89 preps gain momentum

made contributions of US$160 000 through the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe, which serves as the principal and holding company.
Minister of Mines and Development, Obert Moyo, was the Guest of Honour at the event which saw firms such as Mbada Diamonds, Marange Resources and Anjin coming together to contribute the large chunk for the tournament which is held annually to celebrate the birthday of President Robert Mugabe.
Mpofu said the tournament should be befitting the stature of the President.
“Since its inception in 2011, the Bob Super Cup has not only transformed our sporting landscape, but it has managed to rejuvenate the Zimbabwean soul,” said Mpofu.
“Thus, l wish to assure you of my commitment to the development of sport in Zimbabwe and the success of the Bob Super Cup initiative.
“When l consider the depth and wealth of the spirit of the man this tournament is held in honour, a man who has captured the hearts, not of this nation, nor of Africa alone, but of the whole developing world, l feel humbled at being tasked to be the Guest of Honour at an event held in honour of this man.
“When l reflect, on the fact that this man has not wavered from fighting, even when everything was stacked against him, not only for the total independence of Zimbabwe, but that of Africa at large and now for the total control of African resources by the African people themselves, it is both comforting and reassuring that the Bob Super Cup is held in honour and in celebration of this man.
“From its inception, the Bob Super Cup has evolved to become a testimony to the fact that when our detractors seek to (attack) our unity and strength, the tournament has shown that our strength and unity lie in our people.
“In this regard, honourable guests, the theme chosen for this year’s tournament, namely, forging unity through sport, is very appropriate.”
Mpofu said sport can only be a success if those who are part of it applied their passion and commitment.
“ I want to say to you, my compatriots, and the sports administrators and coaches here present will agree with me, that, success in sport requires heart, pride, tenacity and teamwork,” said Mpofu.
“In the same manner, success in life requires the same.
“The lessons we learn when we watch men sweating in the playing field, these lessons can also be replicated to the real playing field of life.
“Similarly, it is my conviction that our aspirations as a nation can only be realised through unity, teamwork, pulling together in the same direction and above all, tenacity.
“These values define the man whose birthday we are gathered here to celebrate through sport.”
Mpofu said football must move on and develop after its battles with taming the Asiagate monster.
“Sad developments in our sporting industry, such as the Asiagate scandal, have put a huge dent on our football fraternity,” said Mpofu.
“I believe that it is important that we address the underlying causes, and follow up with a comprehensive approach to sports development in the country.
“ In pursuit of this cause, it is my challenge to the Bob Super Cup founder, Stan Kasukuwere and his team to look into, and find inspiration from the depth and wealth of the man this tournament is held in honour.
“To show excellence by ensuring that this initiative will not only become another event in the sporting calendar, but to develop it into a mammoth institution befitting the stature of the man whose birthday we are celebrating.
“By this time next year, instead of this singular Bob Super Cup football tournament, l wish to hear of Bob Super Cup covering athletics, netball, handball, hockey, golf, rugby and even boxing.
“Reaching out for talent at the grassroots, in the village and going forward to transcend our borders to having a Bob Invitational Super Cup between teams from different countries.
“Not to end here, but to establish a Bob Super Cup Academy, this will be symbolic of the profoundness of the man R. G Mugabe. Let me affirm again that you have my commitment and support,” said Mpofu.
The function also saw companies such as National Eye Security, Lobels and Goldtech Electronics, among others, making pledges.
A Dynamos and a Highlanders soccer jersey and last year’s trophy, which was won by FC Platinum, were also auctioned at the dinner.
Dynamos vice-chairman, Webster Chikengezha, coach Callisto Pasuwa and his skipper Tawanda Muparati were present at the function.
Highlanders were represented by club secretary-general Andrew Tapela, assistant coach Bekithemba Ndlovu and skipper Innocent Mapuranga.
Meanwhile, Bob Super Cup chairman Kasukuwere, said they were grateful for the support they received from the bussiness community and would reconcile the cash donations and the pledges as they anticipate to host a bigger edition of the Bob ‘89 Super Cup.
Dynamos won the inaugural tournament two years ago while Highlanders will be participating for the first time.
It is also the first time the tournament is being played over two legs and Dynamos will host Bosso in a fortnight at Rufaro.