Online Reporter
Midlands Bureau Chief
Sheasham FC, a Central Region Soccer League team, is showing that football extends beyond the pitch as it is identifying and developing talent, making a notable difference in empowering young people and women in Gweru.
At a recent fundraising dinner, Sheasham FC’s president, Clever Mandaza, highlighted the team’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and promoting community wellbeing.
“We have gone beyond the pitch to fulfill one of our core objectives, supporting our community. Through football, we are empowering young people and women, keeping them off the streets, and nurturing their potential,” said Mandaza.
The club has established partnerships with local schools such as Thornhill, Chaplin, and Msilahobe High Schools, aiming to identify and groom emerging talent.
Scholarships have also been awarded to promising young players, offering them opportunities to pursue both academic and sporting excellence.
Mandaza recalled the club’s humble beginnings in 2015 as a social football outfit, never imagining the influence it would one day wield.
“We started as a boozers team, but through hard work and dedication, we have built a professional structure that includes a women’s team, a junior development programme, and an academy with Under 13, Under 15, and Under 17 teams,” he said.
Currently, Sheasham FC employs 80 individuals across its men’s and women’s senior teams, creating vital job opportunities within the Gweru community.
“We are investing in our people and our vision is clear, to become a professional football club known for discipline, talent development, and excellence both on and off the field,” Mandaza said.
As part of their professionalisation drive, the club recently appointed seasoned football administrator Brightwell Kadenge as Chief Executive Officer to ensure effective management.
Mandaza assured sponsors and supporters that their contributions are well placed.
“Your investment is helping shape a brighter future for our players and the community.”
Guest speaker Simbarashe Chidyiwa, Marketing Manager at Vordim Trading, praised the club for its impactful work.
“Sheasham FC is a beacon of hope. Through employment creation, youth empowerment, and supporting the girl child, the club is positively transforming lives,” he said.
“Football brings people together, promotes healthy lifestyles, and offers a platform for personal growth.”
Chidyiwa applauded the team’s strong start to the season, remaining unbeaten after seven matches.
He also kick-started the fundraising drive with a US$2 000 donation. Other notable contributions came from board members Munyaradzi Mafaza and Norman Mpofu, as well as Chitere, Chidawanyika and Partners.
Go Beer Brewery pledged to provide refreshments to fans after home matches, further cementing community ties.
Sheasham FC chairperson Reginald Chidawanyika paid tribute to the late Lazarus Tichaona Chikadaya, a key benefactor and the intended guest of honour, who passed away shortly before the event.
His wife, Jane, and son, Phineas, attended the dinner in his honour.
