Online Reporter
THE story of Mpopoma Sports Academy has always been rooted in hope, graft and community pride.
When the Caf Girls Integrated Football Tournament lands in Harare this December, the Bulawayo side steps onto that stage carrying more than a badge. They walk in with a decade of quiet labour behind them and a wave of support pushing them forward.
For a club that built itself on borrowed fields, teenage ambition and the patience of volunteer coaches, the chance to represent Zimbabwe at a continental development tournament feels like a full circle moment. The second edition of the Caf GIFT competition will run from December 8 to 18 and features eight under 17 sides from across Southern Africa. It is designed to strengthen the women’s game on the continent by creating real competition at youth level, and for Mpopoma, the assignment comes wrapped in opportunity.
The team will shift base to Harare for the event, and although far from their familiar grounds in Bulawayo, they will still feel at home. Their supporters travel with heart more than distance, and the academy has always drawn energy from that connection. Head coach Evans Neta leads the group. They may be new to this level, but their intent is clear.
Academy founder James Rugwevera still sounds almost surprised by how far the project has travelled.
He remembers the early days when the idea of competing beyond ward level seemed like a dream. Now the academy stands as Zimbabwe’s representatives.
“This is an honour that came as a surprise. We probably have worked hard to be at this level where we get national recognition over a journey that started almost 10 years ago. We are going to be representing Zimbabwe and we are grateful to Zifa, Mpopoma High School and the community for the support and encouragement through high seas.
“This should be a stepping stone for further growth and we look forward to corporate engagements going beyond the tournament to make these girls realise their dreams and turn professional or get scholarships to go and study abroad while playing football. This is culmination of many years of hard work by coaches Nobuhle Majika, Evans Netha and management and I would like to thank Mpopoma High School for the support rendered always and the community,” said Rugwevera.
Their belief widens through the players too. Midfielder Tatenda Gambiza, only 15, already carries international experience after featuring for Zimbabwe at the Cosafa Under-17 Championship earlier this year. She speaks with the kind of confidence that comes from knowing the weight of the flag.
“We are ready for the tournament,” she said. “We do not want to add numbers, but we are going to win the tournament and do the nation proud.
“For me, the tournament is not just a tournament as I have represented the country on four occasions, and I know how it feels.”
Mpopoma open their campaign on 8 December at Ngoni Stadium against Namibia’s Otjiwarongo Sports Academy. Malawi’s Luwinga Academy and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns complete a challenging pool that will ask them to grow quickly and compete boldly.
Fixtures
8 Dec, 15:00
Mpopoma Sports Academy vs Otjiwarongo Sports Academy
11 Dec, 15:00
Mpopoma Sports Academy vs Luwinga Academy
14 Dec, 15:00
Mpopoma Sports Academy vs Mamelodi Sundowns
– Cafonline.com/Sports Reporter
