Players told to stay disciplined during off-season

Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter

FORMER Black Rhinos secretary-general Wellington Mabiginye has called on football players to be disciplined during this off-season break.

Mabiginye is now the chairman of the Harare Province Under-21 Challenge League which has 12 teams from around Harare, Ruwa and Chitungwiza.

Harare Province Under-21 League has in their books 2022 League champions Friendly Academy, runners-up Prime Rangers, DC Academy, BN Academy, Effenberg and Chitungwiza Rovers among others.

Speaking at the Harare Province Under-21 Challenge League Trophy finals held at Allan Wilson at the weekend, the veteran administrator said young players should desist from alcohol and drug abuse as well as taking part in unsanctioned matches (boozers) which may lead to injuries during the off-season break.

“We are happy that we have managed to finish our season with DC Academy winning the final knock-out tournament. We are glad that we are growing as a league. We had 12 teams coming on board this year and it was a good season for us.

“The off-season does not mean that we are going to relax but rather work on our fitness and train hard. I am happy that we have managed to hold all our games. We are hopeful that you (the players) will remain disciplined during the off-season and stay away from alcohol and drug abuse and do not take part in money games as they are a threat to your careers.

“You are the future as most of you are under 21 years of age and we hope your academies will continue to support you during the off season break,” said Mabiginye.

The Under-21 tournament was won by DC Academy who got the better of BN Academy 1-0 in the final.