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Brandon Moyo
AFTER two days of trialing with at least 30 players coming through, Mawabeni FC’s Division One trials were concluded at Mawabeni Grounds yesterday.
The trials, conducted on Saturday and Sunday were a part of the newly promoted side’s attempt to bolster their squad ahead of their maiden appearance in Division One.
Amawab’amahle left no stone unturned in their attempt to make sure that they are competitive in Division One.
The coaches selected 16 new talented players to join the side ahead of their new campaign in Division One.
Conducting the trials was Johannes “Tshisa” Ngodzo, Mawabeni FC head coach Nkosi Moyo, Morris Mukwiti and Nhlanhla Mtshinda Moyo.
Speaking after the conclusion of the trials, head coach, Moyo congratulated the players that made it to from the trials and emphasised that everyone is still welcome at the club.
“I am impressed with the quality that you guys showed. It was evident that you guys are genuine football talents. Chosen or not, all of you are welcome at Mawabeni. Your services are always welcome at this club. Thank you for being a part of us and we are looking forward to having you as part of this family.
“To those selected, business starts now, let us be professional and punctual,” said Moyo.
Mawabeni FC chairperson, Mpumelelo “Mbesuma” Nkomazana thanked all the attendants for coming through and encouraged all the players to continue working hard and giving their all in the field of play.
“Thank you all for attending these trials. We respect the decision that the coaches made, everything will follow after this. We have a tournament coming up so let’s all prepare. It has been an interesting two days and we hope that all of you enjoyed.
“This is just the beginning, from here we grow. Your efforts are invaluable and all of you are talented,”said Nkomazana.
Team secretary, Shepard Mbiwawo, echoed similar sentiments with the coach and chairperson.
“Thank you for coming through and heeding the call to join us for these trials. This is just the beginning, let’s continue working together. The Mawabeni FC door remains open to all, chosen here today or not. We appreciate all of you for coming through,” he said.
Also addressing the players was the sporting director, Paradzai Wedzerai who encouraged the players that failed to make it not to give up but continue working hard as they remain open to have more players joining them.
He said that it is not the end of the road for them and encouraged them to continue working hard.
Mawabeni FC were promoted to Division One after finishing second in the ZIFA Matabeleland South Division Two. They were runners-up to Gwanda Pirates, with only two points separating them at the top of the standings.
Founded in 2019, Mawabeni FC are keen to follow in the footsteps of Stars United from the same district, which played in
Division One and gave a good account of themselves in the 1990s.
The trials were open to all aspiring footballers aged between 18 to 25. resume at 10am today.
Following the conclusion of the trials and bolstering of the squad, the team is expected to begin training this Tuesday.
The new and old players are expected to converge at Mawabeni Grounds as the pre-season begins. The training sessions also serve as preparation for a four-team tournament featuring fellow Division One new boys, Gwanda Pirates, NUST FC and Eagle Life FC.
The tournament will be held at Phelandaba Stadium in Gwanda in February at a date yet to be confirmed.
Players selected from Mawabeni FC trials:
Thabo Simela (rightback), Priviledge Ncube (rightwing), Singabenkosi Sibanda (leftback), Abiola Zhou (centreback), Promise Fuzane (leftback), Ronald Maridzo (defending midfielder), Tyrone Jerot (goalkeeper), Kingdom Moyo (attacking midfielder), Thabiso Masoha (leftback), Ronald Moyo (right wing), Future Mabhena (goalkeeper), Bonginkosi Dube (rightwing), Muzingaye Mahlangu (centreback), Prince Ngondo (defensive midfielder), Lwakhiwe Mpofu (striker) – @brandon_malvin
Online Reporter