dyton mupawaenda
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
BARELY six months after his debut in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, Allan Chapinduka found himself winning and dining with the big boys.
The 19-year-old was last week crowned this season’s PSL Rookie of the Year.
On Friday night, he dined with the big boys.
“When the offer to join TelOne during the mid-season came, I did not think twice because I felt I was running out of time,” he said.
“I had made a pledge to myself that by age of 19, I had to play top-flight league football and now I was already at that stage but yet to make it, so, a part of me was slowly giving up.
“So, when the offer came, I did not mind that the team was fighting relegation, for me, it was simply an opportunity to show the world what I can do.”
When he was called to join TelOne, the AYSA Academy prodigy was clubless.
“I still do not believe that I achieved such a feat in just half-a-season,” he said.
“I recall as a young boy, born first in a family of two, I think my parents had already noted that I was not academically gifted so they motivated me to take football seriously.
“Unlike some of my mates who would receive a bashing at home after football, my parents were the opposite and now I understand why.
“I wish my mother was still alive, I would have made her the happiest mum ever but I believe that she is smiling from above.”
Coach Herbert Maruwa praised Chapinduka’s talent, dedication and hard work.
“He has very good positional discipline and his ball recovery rate is also very good, way more than some experienced players,” said Maruwa.
The budding star was also part of the Warriors Select squad that played an exhibition match against ZDF during the Defence Forces celebrations earlier in August.
“When I saw him play for the first time, all I could see was the potential written all over the young man,” said Maruwa.
“His work rate, commitment and the ability to take instructions, even under pressure, makes him a complete player.
“I am charmed by his achievement, and I believe that this is just the beginning, the future looks very bright for him.
“As a coach, it is so fulfilling to lay your hands on an almost unknown player and penning such a story in a short space of time, I am really happy.”
Online Reporter