Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
JUNIOR football development leaders in Mashonaland West have hailed the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for resuscitating provincial leagues across the country.
After years of neglect by previous ZIFA administrators, junior football development has started to gather pace, thanks to a deliberate strategy by the Nqobolile Magwizi led association.
Recently appointed ZIFA Mashonaland West Junior Football Development Committe president, Ricardo Hwasheni Desouza, says more focus should be on unearthing fresh talent from all corners of the country.
“I am delighted to assume this new post, and I am ready to serve and improve football development in Mashonaland West,” said Hwasheni Desouza, founder of Red Yellow Blue academy and Banket United patron.
“More focus should be on supporting our national teams with quality young players who can then be able to replace the likes of Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat when they decide to call it quits.”
Mashonaland West province held a tournament to select players for the national Under-17 squad at Chinhoyi Stadium last Saturday.
“We want to create more platforms for all talented young footballers in Mashonaland West to showcase their talent and get to be selected for the national teams.
“Our Committee endeavours to nurture young football talent.
“It seems the sun is rising for Zimbabwe football,” he said. Hwasheni De Souza is also a businessman who is renowned for his passion for junior football development in the province.
The Mashonaland West Junior football Development Committee also comprises long-serving ZIFA councilor Derrick Matapure, Alfred Tavavarirwa, Alexander George, Farai Charereka, Coaster Munjanganja, Eunice Kasondo, Spencer Banda and Cephas Bhobho.
Hwasheni Desouza feels time has come for Zimbabwe to make the next step and qualify for the World Cup.
