Chronicle Editor
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARD Five Councillor, Dumisani Nkomo has praised the Tshabalala/Sizinda Old School Association for taking an active role in reviving facilities, youth club concept and the creation of sports events to fight drug and substance abuse.
Nkomo, Clemence Kunzekweguta and Malawi based sports science academic Bheki Khumalo, were among the guests at the weekend in Tshabalala where a soccer tournament for Under-11s was hosted.
The Old Boys group wants facilities in the two suburbs revamped for use by kids as they believe the kids must have several career opportunities at their disposal including sport.
Vibrant sport activity may create professional sports persons that can earn a living from their talents.
“What the guys are doing in Tshabalala and Sizinda is commendable. Residents must take up the initiative to drive things. I am happy with what I have seen of their initiative, it is key to have that happening around Bulawayo as infrastructure gets revived and utilised. Kids get a chance to experiment with a number of sports and it assists them to stay away from social ills,” said Nkomo.
Phiri who was among the organisers of the event, said the tournament empowered the kids as all the teams were kitted.
In the Under-10 category, Queen Elizabeth were the winners after edging Tshabalala Queens 2-1 in a nailbiting finale that was settled by a penalty shootout. The match had ended 0-0 in normal time.
Leah Hungwe and Thembi Phiri scored for Queen Elizabeth.
Tshabalala Pirates won the boys’ Under-10 category.
The match between Tshabalala Pirates and La Massia Sports Academy was an intense affair.
Delan Ruzivo from Pirates scored in the first half and Prince Nkomo from La Massia equalised in the second.
Tshabalala Pirates won the penalty shootout 3-2.
It was a great day for football as Faith Jonas (16) and his assistant Olmighty Bavuma (13) did not disappoint in their officiating of the semi-finals and the final.
Phiri said they are investing in the future and they were impressed that the average age of coaches is 19.
Delan Tembo was crowned Player of the Tournament while Zibusiso Sibanda took home the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.
Phiri praised Zero Supplies, Good Grocery, Ecosure and the Tshabalala/Sizinda Old School (UK and South Africa Chapters for coming on board as partners and sponsors.
Online Reporter