admin
Blessing Malinganiza
TWO months ago, Donovan Bernard celebrated his decade in professional football after making his debut in the Premier Soccer League on October 2, 2013.
Coincidentally, he celebrated his decade with Chicken Inn, the team he faced when he made his debut 10 years ago.
“Looking back at the journey that I have travelled since making my debut in the Premiership on October 2, 2013, my journey is a bag of mixed feelings,” he said.
Donovan recalled the day he made his debut for the now defunct Motor Action against Chicken Inn, after they had returned from a tour of Switzerland with ACES Academy. We had returned from a tour of Switzerland, we performed well and we joined Motor Action and it was the six of us.
“I remember that a day before I made my Premiership debut, there was this boy who was always complaining about not being picked.
“So, the coach called and asked me the last time that I was on the team sheet and I replied that I was not sure but it was long back.
“So the next morning I received a call from coach Prince Matore, who said to me I was going to play that day. At first it did not make sense because at that time Sekuru Jani (Marlon Jani) was our first choice.
“That day he said he was tied up and I was thrown into the fray against Chicken Inn and the match ended nil all. I did not realise how big this was for me until the final whistle.”
It was the first professional match for the then 17-year-old.
“Since that day I have been actively involved in professional football and I think the major highlight for me has been representing my country.”
Donovan has gone to play for How Mine, Dynamos and Chicken Inn where he recently extended his contract.
“I think to spend 10 years playing at the highest level comes with being patient and willing to learn.
“I remember there were times that I could not command a first-team jersey at How Mine but remained patient and the patience has now paid dividends,” he said.
Online Reporter