Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
SAKUBVA United Sports Academy is making significant strides both on the football field and in the wider community.
As a grassroots initiative, it has grown into a beacon of hope for young athletes, offering them a platform to reach new heights.
In recent months, the academy’s impact has been unmistakable.
A standout success story is Genius Hute, who has ascended to the top-flight with Chicken Inn in the Premier Soccer League.
His journey from a local talent to a top-tier player underscores the academy’s dedication to developing world-class athletes.
Beyond Hute, several players have made their mark in Division One football.
Director and chairman of Sakubva United Sports Academy, Washington Mandizha said: “Apart from Hute, we have other players we have channelled to relatively bigger clubs. These include Maxwell Chimboza at Masvingo United, Thanks Simango at Tongogara, O’Neil Muringa, Preference Sarukomusi and Progress Mandevhana at Mutare City Rovers.
“In addition, Munyaradzi Muzandaka is currently showcasing his talent with the Ngezi Platinum Under-19 team. These players stand as testament to the academy’s commitment to excellence and opportunity.”
Alongside its football development, Sakubva United Sports Academy is equally passionate about education.
Through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, the academy supports five learners at Sakubva 1 High School by paying their school fees.
“Additionally, five more learners in various schools in Honde Valley receive similar support, turning Honde Valley into a vital outreach hub for the academy. This dual focus on sport and education underscores the academy’s mission: to empower young people both on and off the pitch,” said Mandizha.
However, the academy’s growth is not without challenges.
A significant hurdle is the reluctance of some clubs to offer tokens of appreciation or development compensation for players the academy has nurtured.
While these young athletes go on to succeed at other clubs, the academy bears the cost of their early development without adequate financial recognition.
“This lack of support restricts the academy’s ability to reinvest in training, scouting and supporting other young talents, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Addressing this challenge is critical to ensure the academy’s sustainability and continued positive impact,” said Mandizha.
