Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
VETERAN football administrator Edward Mutukwa believes development of players at a an early age must be prioritised more than results.
The former Black Rhinos secretary general, who now also runs an academy playing in the ZIFA Mashonaland Central Division Two B, was speaking at an awards ceremony in that province to motivate players.
“We are not just a football team, we are an institution focused on holistic development,” said Mutukwa.
“While our ultimate goal is to win matches and gain promotion to division one, we must also focus on building character, discipline, and a winning mentality.
“This award celebrates individual effort that contributes to our collective success. It tells our young players that hard work does not go unnoticed,” he added.
The awards initiative is designed to recognise and reward consistence, excellence, dedication and improvement among players.
Mashonaland Central ZIFA administrator Prisca Ruwiza, who graced the inaugural event held at Kanyemba Secondary School, said she was delighted by such an initiative.
“It’s always good to have our clubs encouraging our players to push beyond their limits,” she said.
“Us as a region we also have a similar exercise and we are happy that players from Mutukwa have also managed to be part of our awards.
“Striker Trymore Chikorwa was awarded for being the league’s top goal scorer, not just Mashonaland Central Division 2 B but with 2 A combined. So we encouraging the rest of the players to keep pushing and have a statement on themselves.”
Seven players got awards in four different categories and they received cash prizes.
Player of the month (May) – Admire Usayi, Player of the month (June) – Tererai Muringai & Tinashe Nyariri, Player of the month (July) – Edmund Senzere, Clean sheets (7) on each match – John Thomas, Most Consistent player – Trust Gemu & Trymore Chikorwa, Most Disciplined Player – Edmund Senzere.
Player of the month July Edmund Senzere known for his relentless work rate and pinpoint passing, said it’s an honour to receive the award.
“It motivates me to work even harder and sets a standard for everyone,” said Senzere.
