Copa boys back from Chelsea

Chelsea.
The 15-member squad arrived yesterday afternoon after training at the state-of-the-art Cobham Training Centre.
Footballers from different part of the country had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the world class players at Chelsea.

Coca-Cola franchise senior brand manager, Mona Karingi, described the tour as a huge success.
“The boys had wonderful time in England and this is good for them in their football career.
“We want to support grassroots’ football and this is a great achievement for us and we have set our standards high, which we aim to maintain.
“The Zimbabwe Dream Team had an opportunity to meet their idols, which will work as motivation to the youngsters,” Karingi said.

The team won the first game after beating Algeria 3-0 before losing to Nigeria, Zambia and Malawi.
Delta sales and marketing manager Rold Baloyi, who went as the stand-in coach, said the exposure will take the boys to a higher level.

“Our team had the right age and we had the opportunity to see (Andre Villa) Boas (Chelsea manager), Roberto di Mateo (assistant manager) and former Chelsea player Graeme le Saux.
“The players also saw live the 5-1 Chelsea demolition of Bolton,” Baloyi said.

Honest Marandu, the Coca-Cola country manager, said:
“We are committed to the COPA Coca-Cola promise and will spare no expense to ensure these budding stars are on the right track,” said Marandu.

Team captain and Walter Musona said it was an important adventure in the development of their careers.
The sentiments were echoed by the youngest player in the team, 13-year-old Lucky Dube, from Gifford High.

His mother Nomalanga Dude said the sky was now the limit for her son.
“I could not believe him when he said he had been chosen to tour Europe.

“I am very pleased with what Delta have done for the kids and, on behalf of all the parents, I say keep on doing the good work,” Dube said.