Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
FIFTEEN years after he last kicked a ball in the domestic Premiership, Willard Katsande’s influence in the local game continues to be felt.
The former Warriors captain is a legend in the South African Premiership where he starred for Kaizer Chiefs.
Katsande’s last dance with the domestic Premiership was in 2010 in the colours of Gunners before the South African Premiership Moneybags came knocking on his door.
He is now involved in the identification and nurturing of the next generation of stars.
And, two of his best young players from his Kitoko Soccer School could feature in the opening weekend of the new domestic season.
The 2025 Castle Lager Premiership season gets underway today.
Katsande’s players have made the grade at Manica Diamonds.
Kitoko Soccer School is based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Katsande embarked on a tour during the pre-season in Zimbabwe, where his project played against CAPS United, FC Platinum, and Manica Diamonds.
However, it was the Gem Boys who could not resist the potential of Sibusiso Ndlovu and Tapiwa Muhwirindwa, who are both aged 17.
The duo have each been handed three-year deals.
Sibusiso plays as a midfielder and Muhwirindwa is a defender.
Katsande hailed Manica Diamonds for giving his boys a chance.
“I’m more than excited for the boys because, from the beginning, I told them that this trip to Zimbabwe is not only about exposing them to a different environment but also about getting someone a Premiership breakthrough.
“And the boys were at their best during the tour.
“Everyone tried their best, but this duo impressed coach Jairosi Tapera more.
“It is something that will count as a big win for Kitoko Soccer School because if someone can make it just like that from this project, a lot of them will be motivated to keep their eyes on the ball.”
Katsande is already walking the talk after his recent appointment to ZIFA’s Ad hoc committee, which focuses on Diaspora and Global Interaction.
The committee’s priority is to foster engagement between stakeholders, footballers and fans based outside Zimbabwe.
They are also tasked with identifying prospective Warriors players plying their trade outside the country.
Katsande called it quits three years ago but is already making giant strides in the development of grassroots football.
He is also credited with identifying CAPS United midfielder Tanaka Shandirwa, during the annual Willard Katsande tournament.
Shandirwa was twice selected as the tournament’s best player.
