adminSports Reporter
CHAMBARA ward are the winners of the second edition of the Chegutu East Seven Heroes Football Shield after they beat Nehanda 1-0 in the final at Chivero Sports Club on Saturday. Chegutu East legislator Webster Shamu started the tournament in honour of the seven freedom fighters who fought and perished in the Battle of the Chinhoyi in April 1966 to signal the start of the Second Chimurenga.
Sixteen teams from the constituency took part from the first round until the final match at Chivero Sports Club, formerly Selous Sports Club.
Shamu said people should use sport as a platform for nation building.
The winners walked away with US$2 500, a floating trophy and gold medals while the runners-up received US$1 500, silver medals and soccer balls. Zifa president Cuthbert Dube, who has been criticised by his foes for not watching matches involving the Warriors or the domestic Premiership teams, watched the teams clash in the final.
Dube was in the company of Zifa board member for development, John Phiri, who has impressed the association’s boss since being co-opted onto the board.
“This is where football starts and we seem to be neglecting the grassroots. Fifa is very particular about grassroots development.
“If we look at countries like Zambia, they put a lot of emphasis on grassroots development and if we had resources our technical director and coaches should come to such events and look for players.
“There are a lot of school competitions, even in rural areas, and that’s where we should be looking for talent.
“The idea of selecting the national team from established clubs in the PSL is fine but we have to nurture the grassroots,” said Dube.
Wilbert Takazviona from Chambara walked with two awards when he was voted the most disciplined player as well as the Players’ Player of the Tournament.
Goalkeeper Aleck Njororo was voted Player of the Tournament.
Online Reporter