Chronicle EditorInnocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
YOUNG Flying Stars Academy continues to establish itself as a leading and vibrant youth football development centre in the country, with its most recent school holiday programme attracting talent from around the world and earning widespread praise.
The academy has undertaken significant work in elevating junior football, becoming a symbol of excellence and opportunity for aspiring young players. Its efforts have not only improved local talent but also drawn international attention — a remarkable achievement for a grassroots organisation.
The eight-day initiative, held during the April school holidays, has already attracted a substantial number of young players, including international participants from Australia and England.
Held every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 9AM to 11AM, the camp provides a crucial blend of technical coaching, guidance, and enjoyment — a space where children can relax, learn, and develop through football.
Academy Director Collin Nyambiya provided details about the school holiday programme.
“We are hosting a school holiday programme at Hartsfield Rugby Grounds. It will be eight days in total — that is, every Tuesday and Thursday starting from this week. From 9 to 11, the kids come and learn football. This is time for kids to relax and learn football techniques which will help them in the future. We are happy to have our programme attracting some kids from abroad — it goes to show that we are doing something right as an academy. This is an academy of choice. We encourage parents to come and register their children for this hugely beneficial programme,” said Nyambiya.
Among the visiting players is 16-year-old Damien Olivier, who plays for Queensland Academy in Australia. Born in South Africa and having spent much of his childhood in Zimbabwe, Olivier has returned to hone his skills in preparation for a significant competition back home.
“I decided to train with this academy because I have a competition when I get back to Australia which needs me to be at my best. I went to Milton High School in Bulawayo, so I have my roots here in Zimbabwe. I am hoping to make the most out of this camp with some of these top coaches taking us through the paces,” said Olivier.
Another notable participant from overseas is Ezra Junior Volo Sibanda, also 16, who plays for Tamworth FC Academy in England. Currently back home for the holidays, he said that the coaching at Young Flying Stars has surpassed his expectations.
“I play for a National League club. I came here to prepare for when I go back. I believe I have to be in my best shape. It’s been a good experience here — the training has been exceptional. We’re having the best exercises. I am hoping to learn from the coaches and the players that I am training with during this period,” he said.
The academy has produced talented players such as Thabo Dube, now on a scholarship in Poland, and Tyler Mukudu, also on a scholarship in the United States. Young Flying Stars also features several players in the Zifa Southern Region Division One league, including Arnold Chimombe at Mbizo Stars, Alfred Gwari with Nust, Masimba Kwatara at Eagle Life, Desmond Mukamba at Bulawayo Warriors, and Fred Ndoro with Mbizo.
What truly distinguishes Young Flying Stars is not just the increasing international interest but the high-quality guidance and coaching provided by an exceptional team deeply connected to both the local and global football landscape.
Leading the Under-13s is Nomsa “Boys” Moyo, a former captain of the Mighty Warriors, whose coaching credentials include Fifa certification and over a decade of experience in grassroots football development. Her leadership and hands-on approach are central to the academy’s coaching setup.
Working with the younger players, coaching the Under-11s, is Addlight Zvembire, a former academy player himself. Zvembire holds a Level-2 coaching certificate and combines his time on the pitch with his mechanical engineering apprenticeship — embodying the well-rounded development the academy aims to foster.
Jacob Mloyi brings significant professional experience to the academy. He previously played for Botswana Premier League side Masitaoka FC and Zimbabwe’s top-flight team Green Fuel. Mloyi now serves as a demonstration coach, assisting across all age groups and providing crucial elite-level insight during training.
Overseeing the Under-15s is former national team player, Master Masiku, a long-standing figure at Young Flying Stars with over 12 years of dedication. Highly qualified in junior grassroots development, his loyalty and deep understanding of the academy’s ethos are vital in shaping young talent.
At the forefront is Nyambiya, the academy’s founder, first team coach, and technical director. A Fifa-certified coach with a strong background in youth development, Nyambiya’s vision has been the driving force behind the academy’s growing influence both locally and internationally.
Providing further strategic guidance as the academy consultant and advisor is Bongani Mafu. A Fifa-accredited coach with extensive knowledge across Southern Africa, Mafu even coached Nyambiya during his formative years.
Online Reporter
Sidumisile Mabena