Chronicle EditorTobias Mandoreba in Hwange
The ZIFA Matabeleland North Division 2A and 2B Leagues will kick off on March 25 amid high expectations of yet another episode of intriguing and thrilling battles by the participating teams.
According to the provincial chairperson Dennis Tshuma, an annual general meeting at Hwange High School on March 3 will be a precursor to the kick off.
“We have set March 25 as the kick off date in these two leagues and we expect more fireworks, intrigue and excitement from Hwange, Vic Falls, Dete and Binga where teams are based as part of efforts to spread the game throughout the province.
“At the AGM issues like affiliation fees, promotion and demotion logistics and other administrative matters will be thrashed out as we seek to have a more professional league,” said Tshuma.
He also highlighted that the drive to take the game to the rural set up is reaping fruits as both leagues are set to have new teams this year.
“Nekatambe Cheetahs FC and Makwa Gunners FC are joining 2A league from their respective Division Three zones in Dete and Makwa respectively while the 2B(Binga) will have at least 16 teams from the initial 10 clubs in their first year.
“Interest for football in Binga is phenomenal and we will reward them through establishment of a Division Three league this season,” added Tshuma.
Affliation fees has been pegged at $300 for old clubs while new clubs will fork out $350.
Four technical teams’ members in each team will pay $30 while players will part with $5, a reduction from $10.
Teams are expected to have completed registration by March 10 with the provincial leadership also adding that flexible payment terms will be availed to clubs to cushion them from financial challenges.
Moto Moto and Lunda FC clinched the 2A and 2B leagues respectively last season. —@tobymandox
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