TINO benza GETS HIS GONG

Bruce Chikuni

TINO Benza says he is only starting and expects to make an even bigger impact on the domestic Premiership next season.

The 21-year-old, who plays for his father’s club, Herentals, was handed his Chibuku Super Cup Golden Boot yesterday at Motor Action Sports Club.

PSL chief executive, Kennedy Ndebele and Black Rhinos coach, Stanford “Stix” Mutizwa were among the guests.

Tino took the gong after netting twice in the country’s biggest knockout competition.

He appears to be making steady progress and enjoyed a good season, in which he helped his team reach the final of the Chibuku Super Cup.

He is also among the 11 Castle Lager Soccer Stars of the Year.

“Personally, I’m really grateful, this has motivated me to push myself to do better next season,” he said.

“My teammates have been the driving force in all the great things I do.

“They have been pushing me to get to the top.

“And, I also want to give credit to our coach, Kumbirai Mutiwekuziva, for being kind in many ways and also his unique way of getting the best out of everyone.”

He also praised his father and teammate, Innocent, for making his dream turn into a reality.

The ageless Herentals’ boss hailed his son.

“Tino has been working hard to get to where he is today.

“He has been working overtime to take his game to another level.

“The feeling of reaching the Chibuku Super Cup final is so difficult to explain.

“I’m so happy and excited by the commitment of the players, coaches, management and fans,” said Benza.

He said he still wanted more next season.

“I’m happy with how the year has been, but I believe there’s still room for improvement.

“Next season there’s going to be greater things from Tino and all our teams.

“We are aiming for bigger things next season,” he said.

Mutiwekuziva urged his players to abstain from drugs.

“It’s good that we are all gathered here to celebrate Tino’s success, but I’m also challenging you all to set personal targets.

“We have one of domestic football’s legends, Mutizwa, who has seen it all.

“He is the person he is today because he didn’t do drugs.

“I’m urging you all to avoid drugs and invest more energy in pursuing your dreams,” said Mutiwekuziva.