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Curtworth Masango-Sports Reporter
TWO-TIME Super Bowl champion and NFL legend Ray Crockett hailed the enthusiasm to learn American Football that was exhibited by a group of players and coaches after taking them on a coaching program at Alan Wilson recently.
The programme was organised by the Zimbabwe American Football Federation (ZAFF) which is led by Abednigo Mashuka.
ZAFF received immense support from ED for Sports in making sure that the two-day program was a success.
American football is still in its formative years and the federation is working tireless to grow the sport in the country.
Other African countries like Nigeria, Morocco and South Africa have already embraced the sport long way back.
Crockett was accompanied by Mark Maren, who is the founder of Tropical Football International and they donated some playing kits to the federation.
Crockett believes it will take some time for the country to develop the sport to the highest level but with patience it will be achievable.
“It was a great group and understanding group,” said Crockett.
“I have travelled across Africa and this is one of the groups that was eager to learn and that is what you can ask for as a teacher.
“You don’t come here and look for a superstar that is impossible but you will be looking for people who are respectful and eager to learn.
“That is what I ask for in people, God-given things that is energy, effort, and the ability to learn. I just pick all those who pick those things.
Crockett believes one way or the other the young players are destined for greater heights despite any form of background.
“To be honest I met a guy from Nigeria just like this and now is doing wonders in NFL now. I started to work with him a long time ago so you never know what God has for you. It does not matter where you are, and who you are as there is no man who can stop what God has for you.
“The guys here have to be patient but as I said before if you work hard and put your work silently the results will become very loud.
Kudzai Chimbetete, one of the coaches that participated in the program said he was honoured to learn from those who have the exposure at the highest stage.
“We have been having our coaching clinics on American football.
“We learnt the best from Ray and Mark. We learnt a lot from the two gentleman.
“It was a very good experience and eye opening. I hope these guys come back and give us more exposure,” he said.
Another coach Kenias Chizema was delighted by the number of youngsters who have shown interest in the sport.
“These guys came here to help us on how we can improve our youngsters about this sport.
“I am happy that some of the guys here are taking sport as a business and eager to polish their skill and shunning drugs.
“We are expecting some of our guys to make it at the highest stage for them to be seen by the world,” he said.
Online Reporter