Chronicle Editor
Michael Makuza
DIVISION One side Nkayi United Football Club celebrated their top performers on Saturday during an end-of-season awards ceremony at Bulawayo’s Emakhandeni Suburb.
Players received trophies and cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding contributions throughout the season.
The event was graced by representatives from the Zimbabwe Soccer Coaches Association (ZISCA), Football Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ), Referees Association, and Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA). Also in attendance was Zimbabwean football legend Ronald “Gidiza” Sibanda.
Competing in the Southern Region Division One, Nkayi United concluded their first season in third place with 51 points, trailing the champions ZPC Hwange by 28 points, who finished with 79 points. Casmyn secured second place with 56 points. This commendable finish is expected to fuel the team’s ambitions for promotion in the coming season.
The following accolades were awarded to the team’s standout players:
- Player of the Season: Enock Mlauzi
- Players’ Player of the Season & Midfielder of the Season: Nhlanhla Pfumapano
- Goalkeeper of the Season: Yusuf Chisara
- Defender of the Season: Meluleki Ncube
- Most Disciplined Player: Leeroy Zimba
- Young Promising Player of the Season: Mbongeni Mhlanga
- Top Goal Scorer: Tinotenda Chitete
With the season now concluded, the club is preparing to strengthen its squad during the transfer window to enhance its chances of securing promotion. Sponsored and owned by Kingdom Blue Funerals, Nkayi United has set its sights on reaching the Premier Soccer League next season.
The club’s sporting director, Mr Liberty Nduna, expressed confidence in the team’s prospects: “At the moment, we have depth with 40 players on payroll, but next year we’ll trim the squad to 30. We are grateful to Kingdom Blue Funerals for their support and remain committed to improving and making our sponsor proud.”
Kingdom Blue Funerals finance director, Mr Mthokozisi Ncube, reiterated their commitment to the team:
“We are proud of the club and will continue to support them. We aim to help the team secure promotion and are prepared to bring in new players to bolster the squad. We also encourage players to stay away from drugs and focus entirely on football, as we’re here to support them in every way.”
Mr Prince Nyoni, the ZIFA fixture coordinator for the Southern Region, commended Nkayi United’s achievements:
“Finishing third in their debut season is an impressive feat and should not go unnoticed. We appreciate the efforts of the club and wish them continued success.”
Online Reporter