Wenslus Murape
Bruce Chikuni, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE champions Simba Bhora have started putting in place everything needed to allow them to participate in the CAF Champions League next year, including setting up a women’s team.
Simba Bhora were officially crowned as the 2024 Castle Lager Premiership champions at Nyamhunga on Saturday.
They can only participate in Africa’s inter-club flagship tournament if they have a women’s team registered in a competitive league.
And, the team’s vice-president Tonderai Ndoro, who is also the wife of club owner Simba, confirmed they have already laid the foundation.
But, she said they are going to start from Division One and fight for the Heart Women’s League slot to lessen the burden on the club owner.
“We are extremely excited with this victory which has brought joy not only to anyone associated with this club but our family as well.
“This is all we ever wanted as a family to win this championship for Shamva and Mashonaland Central.
“A bigger fight is in sight, we are planning to defend the championship next season. We know that having a women’s team is fundamental and we have already started putting our house in order.
“We are planning to start from Division One where we can fight for promotion before we get into the main business where we would also want to make a lasting impression,”said Ndoro.
She added:
“I want to thank everyone who has been supporting our vision at any level, we can not thank them enough. But it is for everyone to see that our success has been made possible by dedicated people who have stood by us even in our darkest moments.
“We are also hoping to create unforgettable memories with our women’s football team.
“The idea is to inspire young people in Mashonaland to have hope. We need to create opportunities for aspiring female and male athletes from our province and beyond.”
Last season, Ngezi Platinum Stars won the championship and their milestone birthed the team’s women’s team which is also playing in Division One.
FC Platinum also established Platinum Royals.
Dynamos also formed their ladies team last season after winning the Chibuku Super Cup for them to be able to compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Online Reporter