Chronicle Editor
Michael Magoronga, [email protected]
Former CAPS United, Lancashire, Highlanders, Dynamos and Warriors defensive midfielder Stephen Alimenda’s AS Football Academy has expanded into Kwekwe, focusing on identifying and nurturing rural talent.
Alimenda, who played for Zimbabwe’s top three clubs – Highlanders, CAPS United and Dynamos – founded the academy in 2018 after retiring in 2016.
Initially based in Harare’s Glen Norah suburb, the academy now operates in Kwekwe, where Alimenda began his football career, aiming to give back to the community. The academy caters to 9-20-year-olds, targeting both urban and rural areas.
“This is why we have players from Kwekwe, Amaveni, Redcliff, Torwood, Zhombe and Silobela. We don’t want to leave anyone behind; we want to identify and nurture talent,” Alimenda said.
Alimenda stressed the importance of community giveback. “I feel the need to give back, especially to youth lacking platforms to enhance their careers. There’s ample talent, but they need platforms to propel their careers to the next level.
Currently self-funded with some sponsor support, Alimenda appealed for assistance.
“We need sports equipment like footballs, boots and uniforms. We’re using available resources.”
Since its inception, the academy has produced players like Tatenda Tinago (Dynamos), Taurai Munyuki (Dinson Steel) and Nelson Guveya (Greenfuel). Alimenda, a Level Two coaching certificate holder working towards a Caf C licence, has organised tournaments for Harare and Kwekwe academies to exchange notes.
“We’re planning mini-tournaments for Under-14s, featuring Kwekwe primary schools and guest teams from Harare and Under-20s with Harare guest teams,” he said.
Alimenda collaborates with experienced coaches, including Phumuzile Zikhali, Ruben Phiri and Moses Makanje. Born in Kwekwe, Alimenda attended Dambudzo Primary and Manunure High School before joining Chrome Stars, Lancashire Steel, Mwana Africa, Hardbody and Triangle.
Fellow former Lancashire and Highlanders player, Simbarashe Gate also runs a thriving junior development project in Kwekwe.
Online Reporter