adminNare, a form three pupil, was one of the outstanding players at the inaugural Matabeleland South edition of the Sylvia Dube Women’s Memorial Soccer Tournament held at Pelandaba Stadium in Gwanda in June.
She got the scholarship after it was discovered that the intended beneficiary Rebecca Ndlovu had dropped out of Lushongwe High School.
The Zifa president Cuthbert Dube bankrolls the competition through Buymore Investments.
Speaking on behalf of Dube during a presentation ceremony held at Bethel Secondary School on Friday, Wavell Gunda who handed Nare uniforms, textbooks, exercise books and soccer boots, said they would take care of the student until she completes her studies.
“Players must know that football alone can’t prosper and it needs academic backup.
“This is why we decided to help talented kids through the Sylvia Dube Memorial Soccer Tournament scholarship.
“It is our hope that Samukeliso will do well and if she proceeds to college we are going to find her attachments in the city,” said Gunda.
The scholarship came at an opportune time as Nare who is an orphan is said to have struggled to get school fees. She almost dropped out of school due to financial challenges.
Nare could barely hide her excitement as she burst into tears during an interview.
“The Lord has given me a chance to prove myself academically as I pursue my sporting career. This is a lifetime gift which I want to use to the best of my ability.
“I never knew that through playing football someday I will get people to cater for all my educational needs. I will study hard and at the same time I want to continue playing soccer,” said Nare.
Bethel Secondary School headmistress Perseverance Sedzuka also thanked Dube for helping Nare.
Online Reporter