Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WARRIORS captain Marvelous Nakamba says he has never stopped believing in Bulawayo’s football talent and he’s now putting his money, time, and heart into seeing that belief pay off.
After watching his Under-17 side, Njube Spurs, clinch the ZIFA Bulawayo Province League title at Njube Ground on Sunday, Nakamba said the suburb’s football legacy still burns brightly.
“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 need to invest in coaches and the young and enthusiastic kids, who just want to play and travel.”
The Aston Villa midfielder said his dream is simple, to help create the next wave of professionals from Bulawayo.
“At development stage, there has to be more football. The kids must clock in the hours, live and eat football, 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.”
Nakamba recalled how he and his generation were inspired by legends like 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 footballers they were.
“We came a long way and scaled heights inspired by those generations of footballers from Njube,” he said.
He believes Njube Spurs’ title win should mark the start of a bigger journey. “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.
“Development funds from their sale can run the project, while their younger brothers can play in international exposure festivals such as the ones in Polokwane, Durban, and Europe,” said Nakamba.
Njube Spurs were crowned champions during the half time break of their 3-2 win over Talen Vision.
Mathew Masinge