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Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
IT will be the first time they will be playing in a knock-out tournament and local female footballers are relishing the opportunity of leading their clubs to glory in the Heart Cup.
The competition explodes into life next month and the players told Zimpapers Sports hub yesterday that they were itching to square off in the knock-out tourney.
They have been clashing every weekend in the league, which will now be branded following a massive US$320 000 deal struck between Prophet Walter Magaya’s Heart Group of companies and the Zimbabwe Women’s Soccer League.
After more than a decade of just playing for points in the league, a lot of players, will now sample tournament football, which is not the COSAFA competition for those lucky enough to have made it into the Mighty and Young Mighty Warriors squads.
The competition is set to kick off on September 21, with the winning team receiving a significant cash prize.
The deal between the Heart Group and ZWSL is seen as a symbol of empowerment for women, a chance for them to take centre stage and showcase their abilities.
“This tournament has given the girl child a glimpse of hope, upgrading our skills, gaining recognition, and uplifting our football careers.
“It’s a dream come true!” said Tanyaradzwa Chihoro of Maningi Queens.
“We are no longer in the shadows . . . we are taking centre stage.
“This tournament is a chance for us to prove ourselves, to show that we are just as good as our male counterparts.
“We are grateful to Prophet Magaya for this opportunity, and we promise to make the most of it,” she said.
“The Heart Cup represents growth, empowerment, and a platform for young girls to showcase their talents,” added Harre City Queens’ Tracey Vurumundu.
“It challenges stereotypes, promotes gender equality, and inspires future generations.
“We are excited to be part of this tournament, and we look forward to competing against the best teams in the country.”
Former champions Black Rhinos who are currently leading the log table are now eyeing a league and cup double following the introduction of the Heart Cup.
Rhinos forward Passion Chihwena, while excited about the prospects of playing in the cup competition, also revealed she was feeling nervous.
“I’m feeling positive, nervous, and happy all at once!” Chihwena said.
“This tournament is a great chance for us to gain experience, build mental toughness, and make our mark.”
ZWSL chairperson Theresa Maguraushe challenged female footballers to use this initiative as a stepping stone to-wards their bid go get national team call-ups.
“I’m very sure that the gesture from Prophet Magaya has injected some positive energy into these players because some now want to win the league to take home what is at stake.
“Others are going to play their hearts out in the Heart Cup to get national team call ups, and it is something that will bring the missing spark,” said Maguraushe.
ZIFA have also saluted the unveiling of the cup tournament and the branding of the league.
“This sponsorship will inspire more girls to play football and empower them to reach their full potential,” ZIFA chief executive Yvonne Mapika Manwa said.
Online Reporter