Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
WOMEN’S football needs the same corporate support given to the men’s game if it is to keep growing, according to Engineer Lazarus Duri, the sponsor of the Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League (ZWPSL) monthly awards.
Duri made the call on Saturday when he presented the August accolades to Sheasham’s Michelle Mazhambe, the league’s top goalscorer with four goals, and Kwekwe Queens’ Anita Ncube, who took the Player of the Month award.
“Women’s football is getting more and more popular, and I think for us to ensure it grows, we need more companies coming on board to support the game,” said Duri, a medical products businessman. “We should not just concentrate on the men’s side of the game but also pump in funds to women’s football, to motivate the players.”
Each winner received US$100 and a commemorative plaque.
Ncube said the recognition would drive players to raise their standards. “I am happy to be the first player to win this award, and I believe it will motivate others to improve their game. I’m sure we are going to see more players upping their efforts on the field as they would want to walk away with the trophy,” she said.
ZWPSL chairperson Chido Chizondo, welcomed the partnership with Duri’s Louisa Enterprises, saying the new committee wants to reward and inspire players. “We haven’t been celebrating our players enough but as a new committee, we believe we should give more incentives and rewards to the girls to ensure they are celebrated. We are grateful to Duri and Louisa Enterprises for coming on board to partner with us and fund these awards,” she said.
Chizondo, elected in July, said the league is seeking more sponsors to guarantee that players and coaches receive fair rewards. “We are looking at a long-term relationship with Louisa Enterprises and are courting more corporates to ensure players and coaches are fairly rewarded,” she said.
