Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba says he believes in Bulawayo’s football talent and wants to see it nurtured, exposed, and developed into professional success stories.
Speaking after his Under 17 side, Njube Spurs, were crowned Zifa Bulawayo Province League champions at Njube Ground on Sunday, Nakamba said the foundation for success lies in structured youth development.
“I am happy for my boys and the development work the coaches are doing at Njube. It is a suburb with a very good footballing history whose legacy we are all compelled to perpetuate. It starts at grassroots level, where there is a need to invest in coaches and the young and enthusiastic kids who just want to play and travel,” said Nakamba.
He added that for young players to grow, they must “clock the hours” and dedicate themselves to football with discipline and hard work.
“At development stage, there has to be more football. The kids must play, clock in the hours, and improve in all aspects of the beautiful game. I am happy to associate with Njube Spurs, hoping my little contribution may spur one of the boys to greater heights. Bulawayo suburbs have an undeniable football DNA for all of us to ride on and make Bulawayo proud again,” he said.
Growing up in Njube, Nakamba said the suburb’s rich football history inspired him. He recalled the names that defined the area’s golden years, Norman and Rahman Gumbo, Majuta Mpofu, Ernest Sibanda, Madodana Tshabangu, Joshua Mhizha, George Ndlovu, Mangi Phiri, Arum Tshuma and Bigboy Ndlovu.
“These are legends that emerged from our neighbourhood, and as boys we were motivated by street stories of how good they were. We came a long way and scaled heights inspired by those generations of footballers from Njube,” said the Warriors skipper.
Nakamba said winning the league title should serve as motivation, but warned that the project was still in its infancy.
“A hearty congratulations to the coaches and boys. Now with the championship, all eyes will be on the project. The challenge to coaches is that we want to see our boys breaking into professional football at 15 or 16.
The development funds from their sales can sustain the project, while their young brothers gain exposure through international festivals such as the ones in Polokwane and Durban and major tournaments in Europe,” said Nakamba.
He also revealed long term plans to link some of the players with clubs he has played for in Europe, giving them the experience and exposure they need to advance their careers.
Njube Spurs were crowned champions during halftime of their final fixture against Talen Vision, which they eventually won 3-2.
In an unusual twist, outgoing Zifa Bulawayo Province chairman Francis Ntutha, stopped the game midway to present medals, a move that caused a 25 minute delay and angered some spectators who felt it disrespected the spirit of the match.
Talen Vision were also presented with the Under 15 trophy, while Real Stars took the Under 13 crown.
