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Nkosilathi Sibanda,Sports Writer
RENOWNED football coach Moses “Bambo” Chunga has heaped praise on football academies in Bulawayo, saying he is proud of their serious approach to talent identification and commitment to grow the sport, despite facing financial challenges.
Chunga, who was in the city over the weekend, said this on the sidelines of the Master Masiku Under 13 Invitational tournament held at Raylton Sports Club. The tournament, which was organised to honour yesteryear football great Masiku, was contested by teams from academies drawn from Bulawayo, Victoria Falls and Gwanda.
“I see there is rising talent here in Bulawayo. There is serious development that I have witnessed in certain academies such as the Young Flying Stars Sports Academy run by Collen Nyambiya. I so much commend the work they do under tight budgets.
“If we have people like him who go all the way to sacrifice their time, money and other resources, then it will be safe to say the future of football is bright. But, for most of these things to work, one needs financial support,” said Chunga.
Chunga did not mince his words when he advised teams to consider utilising young players.
“I am passionate about grooming youngsters. It is a pity that we are not giving these youngsters a chance. Our football system stipulates that in teams there must be five slots for players under the age of 20, sadly these players are not given the chance to shine.
“If we do not use them, it becomes an issue of wasted time and resources. That talent goes to waste and we benefit nothing in disadvantaging these youngsters. My advice to coaches is they must not be afraid to give young players a chance. If the system allows it, then we have to employ it. Let’s catch them young, because talent blooms at a young age.”
The Dynamos and Warriors legend said his trip to Bulawayo had inspired him to continue his countrywide tour of helping schools and academies in developing budding talent in football, as this will help in identifying players for national teams.
Without naming his next stop, Chunga revealed that he was ready to assist any team that needs his invaluable expertise.
“I am available. I believe I still have a duty to play in developing our game. I played and became a coach because I was assisted by other people right from when I was a youngster. In that regard, I owe it to the nation to give back as well.” _@NkosiLegend.
Bongani Ndlovu