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Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
THERE is dire need to revamp grassroots football and ensure that area zones are hyper active if the country is to harness all the talent at its disposal, businessman and local soccer benefactor, Blessing Mangwiro, has said.
Speaking during the awards presentation ceremony of Chipangayi Area Zone Soccer and Netball Association in Chipinge West held at Middle Sabi Stadium recently, Mangwiro, who has supported numerous football related initiatives through his Big Rock Logistics brand, reminded authorities in domestic football administration on the need to revamp grassroots football and ensure that area zones are hyperactive.
“I remember when we grew up we had football being played at all levels. It was not only about the Premiership. Yes, we used to enjoy top-flight league football with teams like Tanganda FC having players that we adored, but at the same time, we had highly competitive football at grassroots level.
“In fact, it is these grassroots competitions and area zone matches that some talents were discovered and nurtured. Therefore, we really want to urge those running football in this country to spare a thought for grassroots and area zone football. These grassroots and area zone football leagues feed talent into the mainstream leagues,” said Mangwiro.
Sabi Bananas won the Chipangayi Area Zone Soccer and Netball Association football league which has nine teams, while Settlers United settled for second position.
In third position was Farm 31.
The Big Rock Logistics proprietor was quick to note that the cost of maintaining grassroots and area zone football is minimal compared to some competitive leagues.
“Surely, we cannot have the same excuse of money or funding hindering grassroots and area zone football action because the cost of running grassroots and area zone football is minimal compared to some competitive leagues,” he said.
Ward Five sports coordinator, Trust Dube said: “We are serious in promoting sporting activities in marginalised communities in an effort to enhance healthy lifestyles as well as uniting people through sport. We now have two referees who graduated from area zone to become ZIFA panel referees as well as players who are being identified and end up joining competitive teams.
“These are some of the positive developments that we have seen because of area zone football. We have no doubt that we can achieve more if we get the much-needed support. We are thankful to well-wishers like Blessing Mangwiro of the Big Rock Logistics who find time and resources to ensure that we develop football in these marginalised areas where a few people will spare a thought for.”
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