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Tinashe Rufu: Guest Writer
For 12 years, Ariel Sibanda has been the backbone of Highlanders Football Club, standing tall between the posts with unwavering devotion, determination and discipline.
Through the highs and lows, he remained steadfast, even when many thought he would depart during challenging times. Sibanda’s commitment to the club has been unwavering, his loyalty a beacon of inspiration for all.
As the sun sets on Sibanda’s reign as the club’s number-one goalkeeper and captain, the club faithful are filled with gratitude for the knowledge and experience he has imparted to the next generation.
In particular, the emergence of Raphael Pitisi, the promising new goalkeeper, stands as a testament to Sibanda’s influence. The hope and faith that the supporters hold in Pitisi are a reflection of the legacy that Sibanda leaves behind — one of resilience, leadership and a deep love for Highlanders.
But as one chapter ends, another begins. We look to the future with hope and excitement, knowing that Sibanda has passed on his knowledge and expertise to the new blood, Pitisi, our emerging goalkeeper. With Sibanda’s guidance, we are confident that Pitisi will continue to uphold the legacy of excellence set by his predecessor.
Thank you, Ariel, for 12 years of unwavering loyalty and commitment. Your contributions to Highlanders FC will never be forgotten, and your spirit will always be a part of our club’s rich history. Here’s to Ariel Sibanda — a true legend and a beloved member of the Highlanders FC family.
During the week, Sibanda told the media that he still has to decide his future at the Premiership club, but feels this could be his last season in between the sticks for the Bulawayo Premiership football giants.
Sibanda has commanded the Highlanders number one jersey for over a decade after breaking into the first team in 2008 as a junior player. He started doing duty for Bosso’s senior team in 2009 after their then first-choice goalkeeper, Washington Arubi left. Since then, Sibanda has been Bosso’s trusted goalkeeper.
However, this season Sibanda has been on the sidelines owing to an injury and his replacement Pitisi has fared well in his absence.
Asked if he had any retirement plans, Sibanda said: “I still have to think about it. I still feel I have a lot to give to football. What I can say is, that I still have to decide about that this year or next year. Maybe this is my last year at Highlanders.”
The 34-year-old goalkeeper has won a number of trophies with Bosso, including the 2019 Chibuku Super Cup, 2013 Mbada Diamonds Cup, the BancABC Super Cup, the NetOne-sponsored EasyCall Cup, and several Independence Cups, among others.
However, the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) championship has continued to elude him during his long stay at Bosso. Mangoye, as Sibanda is affectionately known, says Munyaradzi Diya and Njabulo Ncube top the list of teammates who gave him a good run for his money. Sibanda is the reigning PSL Goalkeeper of the Year. — @ innocentskizo
Online Reporter