Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA board member Brighton Ushendibaba says it is important for all stakeholders in football to come together and create a dream to chase for the young players.
He was speaking at the PanJap Under-13 football tournament that was held on Saturday at Stodart grounds in Mbare, a ray of hope for hundreds of kids.
A total of eight teams competed for the ultimate prize, with winners walking away with kits and cash. And the tournament organisers made sure every team walked away with something.
“The vision doesn’t stop just in Mbare. We have plans to expand the initiatives, hoping to include other provinces. This is just the start. Seeing what we have here today, it’s clear the hunger for this is real. We want to build a movement across the entire country. These are exciting times,” said Ushendibaba.
Ushendibaba said this will also go a long way in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“Our mandate is to catch them young. Harness their talent and give them the platform to develop their skills.
“At the same time we are also raising awareness against drug and substance abuse. We also had time to warn them against illicit vices in the society,” said Ushendibaba.
One of the organisers Zondai Nyaungwa, says the dusty pitches are not just a place to find the next generation of talent but also a sanctuary.
“We are going to keep on working with these children,” said Nyaungwa.
“This tournament is a new initiative to empower them. We want to give them a goal to chase and a team to belong to and take them away from the dangers of drug abuse that affect many communities. Football is their escape, and we are building the field.”
The tournament was sponsored by PanJap Motors.
Ushendibaba is also well known for helping former footballers find their feet after hanging up their boots and keeping them occupied.
Saturday was a moment of pure happiness, with participants and volunteers having a moment to forget.
“When you see what I see out here, the passion in their eyes, the natural ability . . . it moves you. It’s a powerful motivation to keep on sponsoring, to keep on supporting. This is an investment in their future, and it’s the best investment I can think of,” said Ushendibaba. The tournament was also attended by several football legends and sports personalities.
