Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
A VIBRANT carnival atmosphere transformed the remote Mhakwe Secondary School grounds in Mhakwe Village, Chimanimani District, on Sunday as the inaugural Heroes Trophy showcased exceptional football talent.
The invitational junior football competition, sponsored by Mutare transport entrepreneur, Moleck Machocho, who hails from Mhakwe, exceeded expectations as the host team, Western Villa Academy, Sakubva United, and MAJESA competed in Under-15 and 18 age groups.
The event, which was well-attended by local football enthusiasts, including celebrated former FIFA Panel referee Kenny Marange and other Mutare football personalities, brought life to the usually sleepy community.
MAJESA dominated the competition, clinching top positions in both categories. In the Under-15 competition, MAJESA emerged victorious, followed by Sakubva United and Western Villa.
In the Under-18 contest, MAJESA prevailed over Sakubva United 8-7 in a sudden-death penalty shootout after the teams remained deadlocked 0-0 in regulation time. Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education District Schools Inspector for Chimanimani, Jaibes Jobe, commended the sponsors for their role in promoting sports as a means of keeping youths away from drugs and intoxicating substances.
“We had a wonderful family day out, and we are grateful to the sponsors for remembering marginalised areas like ours in terms of talent identification.
This is something that should be done more often, as it will help combat drug and substance abuse. By keeping youngsters engaged in training and competition, they will have no time to be idle,” he said.
Jobe was impressed by the talent on display.
“We are delighted to have seen the talent we have here in Manicaland, particularly in Mutare and Chimanimani. From what I have seen, I have no doubt that we have players who have what it takes to play for big clubs,” he said.
Chief Chenjerai Muusha, who donated a cash token to the winning teams, expressed his appreciation for the initiative.
“As traditional leaders, we are pleased with what Moleck Machocho is doing to keep our young people engaged. This is commendable, and we look forward to more tournaments, hopefully leading to some of these youngsters playing for big clubs,” he said.
