Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE inaugural PanJap Under-13 football tournament that was held on Saturday at Stodart grounds in Mbare turned out to be a ray of hope for scores of the kids who took part.
Eight teams competed for the ultimate prize with winners walking away with kits and cash.
The tournament was organised by ZIFA board member Brighton “PanJap” Ushendibaba.
“The vision doesn’t stop just in Mbare, we have plans to expand the initiative, we are hoping to include other provinces. “This is just the start.
“Seeing what we have here today, it’s clear the hunger for this is real. We want to build a movement that spans the entire country.
“These are exciting times,” said Ushendibaba.
He added:
“Our mandate is to catch them young, harness their talent and give them the platform to develop their skills.
“At the same time, we are also fighting against drug and substance abuse. We also had time to warn them against illicit vices in the society.”
The young fans, who also came to watch the tournament, were also given a free meal.
“When you see what I see out here, the passion in their eyes, the natural ability… it moves you. It’s a powerful motivation to keep on sponsoring, to keep on supporting,” said Ushendibaba.
“This is an investment in their future and it’s the best investment I can think of.”
The tournament was also attended by several football legends and sports personalities.
Businesswoman, Wanisai “Mahwindo” Mutandwa, said spending time with the kids was the best Valentine’s Day she has ever had.
Former Dynamos ‘keeper Zondai Nyaungwa, a member of the organising committee, said this was just the beginning of a movement.
“We are going to keep working with these children,” said Nyaungwa.
“This tournament is a new initiative to empower them. We want to give them a goal to chase, a team to belong to, and take them away from the dangers of drug abuse that plagues so many communities.
“Football is their escape and we are building the field.”
Peter Tanyanyiwa