admin
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Mutukwa Academy is determined to make an immediate impact as they prepare for their debut in the Mashonaland Central Division Two B league, hosting Jumbo in their opening match on Saturday at Kanyemba High School. The club, which unveiled its squad and new kits yesterday, has set its sights on securing promotion to Division One, with club patron Edward Mutukwa expressing confidence in the team’s readiness.
Speaking at the kit launch, Mutukwa said that the kit and squad unveiling marked the end of their rigorous pre-season preparations.
“Today is the climax of our preparations, where we have officially dressed the team to ensure we are organised for the challenges ahead,” he said.
With extensive experience in football administration, Mutukwa said he was motivated to invest in rural talent development.
“As a football person, I decided to return to my roots, where I grew up to nurture young talent,” he said.
“Our goal is to spread football beyond urban areas and make a meaningful impact in Zimbabwe’s football ecosystem.”
The academy’s squad comprises players aged 16 to 24, a deliberate strategy to develop well-rounded athletes capable of competing at higher levels.
Club chairman Wellington Luwizhi highlighted the team’s preseason preparations, including friendly matches against various clubs, as a sign of their readiness.
“We have exposed the team to different opponents, and their performances have been encouraging,” he said.
“The community is grateful for this initiative, which is keeping young people engaged and steering them away from drug abuse and other social vices.”
Head coach Clever Nyikadzino echoed the optimism, stating that the team had undergone over a month of intensive training.
“We are fully prepared for the new season,” Nyikadzino said.
“Our target is to conquer the Mashonaland Central Division Two league. The support from leadership, including today’s unveiling, shows we are ready.”
Online Reporter