Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda
BULAWAYO-based women’s football side Street Set has caught the attention of a United Kingdom team, Oxford Mansfield, that has expressed interest in an exchange visit.
This is a first of its kind for the sport in the city, and both teams have planned to give players an opportunity to interact and use sport as a tool to empower girls and women from different backgrounds.
Over the past days, the teams have been in constant communication, with Street Set’s director Lee Mangena confirming the development to Zimpapers Sports Hub at the weekend.
In a series of emails gleaned by this publication, the British hope to also do charity work in the country during their visit, alongside their hosts.
“In the spirit of sportsmanship and girl empowerment, we are pleased to say that a United Kingdom-based select side has planned to visit Street Set at a date yet to be announced.
“The team, Oxford Mansfield girls Under-17 would want to engage us as a team and see how best we can work towards building a better life for our players and the community at large. We are using football to advance girl empowerment,” said Mangena.
The seasoned football administrator said they are excited that their efforts in the sport were getting to be recognised after years of toil.
“We are excited about the prospects of hosting the United Kingdom team. This shows that our hard work is paying off.
“We hope to arrange matches against them. Plans are there to also take such an opportunity to market Brand Zimbabwe by visiting places of tourism interest.”
Mangena said they if planned well, Oxford Mansfield girls will have an appreciation of how Street Set players live and appreciate their challenges.
Online Reporter