Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
FOR rural-based teenage footballers like Kudakwashe Chari, arenas to showcase their talent and get scouted by big teams are scarce.
Chari hails from Chisasike village in Hwedza, about 120 km from Harare.
There is no organised league football in this part of the country and budding footballers have to travel over 50km to Marondera, the capital of Mashonaland East province.
Yet some of the teenage footballers in these areas are very talented.
Chari was named player of the tournament at the BG Sniper tourney, which was held in Hwedza last weekend.
The BG Sniper tournament is sponsored by Parkston Choto of BG Sniper Logistics, who was born and raised in the same district.
Although Chari’s side, St Thomas Aquinas Chisasike, did not make it to the final, his raw talent caught the attention of many who watched the games.
Harare Select side emerged winners after beating Sango 1-0 in the final.
It has, however, since emerged that a number of clubs, including two top-flight sides, are now tracking the 18-year-old.
The tournament has already unearthed numerous players such as Tadiwanashe Mhinyu and goalkeeper Allan Masaya, who have attracted interest from Premiership clubs.
Mhinyu is now training with ZPC Kariba, while Masaya was at relegated WhaWha last season.
Black Rhinos coach Stanford “Stix” Mutizwa has also been monitoring impressive 19-year-old midfielder Tatenda Mutaya.
Tafadzwa Kandiado, who is interesting both Cranborne Bullets and Herentals, scored the solitary goal for the Harare Select side.
“We always look forward to this tournament because this is the only platform we have here in the village,” said Chari.
Women’s football, netball and Under-15 boys’ competitions have also been introduced.
More sporting codes are being considered.
Online Reporter