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Bruce Chikuni
THEY are all footballers, met pursuing their dreams in the game, fell in love and ended up tying the knot.
Despite all the distractions, and temptations, their marriages are still on a firm foundation.
The Herentals duo of Christian Nyatondo and Takudzwa Chikosi are married to fellow footballers who play for the club’s women side.
Chikosi is married to Millanda ‘Mimi’ Chimbwanda and their relationship has been going strong for five years now.
Nyatondo and Melanda ‘Bhemba’ Rungu have been together for eight years.
These couples have both welcomed a child.
Women footballers are a victims of lengthy layoffs, once they give birth, which can extend to three years. Maybe, this is what has limited these rare beloved couples to going for more children, for the time being.
Rungu told Zimpapers Sport how she met Nyatondo, who is a pastor-in-the-making at True Believers Faith Ministries.
“We met here at Herentals a long time ago and at first I never thought we were going to get this far with our relationship.
“Nyatondo later showed how serious he was and we gradually stepped up things.
“My mother never wanted any man to stop my dream and she was excited to learn that I was married to a footballer, who also fears God,” said Rungu.
Chimbwanda admitted she was skeptical at first as she was not sure of Chikosi’s intentions.
“Chikosi had a vision that I wasn’t aware of when we started dating, he was serious with everything but it was difficult for me to buy his moves.
“His commitment made me realise that he was the one for me but from the bottom of my heart, there was never a moment when I entertained the thought of marrying a footballer.
“But, I believe we were meant for each other and our families have been supportive.”
She added:
“We are very passionate about football and each time the team loses, it’s easy for me to tell what I should be doing.
“He also understands his role when I’m frustrated after the game but we don’t keep the bitterness for too long and we know how to cool each other down.
“We don’t allow football to take away our happiness and when we are at home, all the focus will be on how best we can improve our way of life.”
Bikita Minerals midfielder, Russel Madamombe, deserves to be commended for setting the tone in this conversation.
He is married to former Mighty Warriors goalkeeper, Onai Chingawo, and they are celebrating their 11th anniversary together.
“The first thing you need to understand is that we all have our backgrounds, mistakes and dreams.
“Some people questioned my decision but I don’t think I could have made it this far if I had listened to critics.
“What is more important is the connection which you have more than what people might say and it is the best decision of my life,” said Madamombe.
Online Reporter