Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
A billion-dollar industry fuelled by broadcasting rights, sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and ticket sales.
That is the reality that is slowly sinking into local football.
Last Friday, MCM Estates, the title sponsors of the Northern Region Soccer League, honoured its promise to reward 2025 league individual winners with residential stands valued at US$24 000 from its flagship development, the Chesa Wildlife Resort.
Soccer star of the year Grey Kufandada of AGAMA walked out with two stands with the one for being the league’s top goal scorer.
Emmanuel Zinyama of N’ombeyawora who was the first runner-up; Paul Chimalizeni of AGAMA (coach of the year); and Wilson Brown of AGAMA (goalkeeper of the year) were also rewarded with their stands.
Apart from the awards sponsorship, the real estate company poured in a $310 000 sponsorship which was announced last year in December.
On the rationale behind the sponsorship, CEO Antony McMullen said his football background inspired him to come into football.
“With my football background, it’s a passion, and I saw an opportunity in the league. “We were following them due to our wildlife resort in Mount Darwin, and when we saw they needed a sponsor, we engaged and took the opportunity.”
On the company’s broader business model, he said the partnership is helping them get the mileage they want.
“In land development, we are producing stands for $200 a month to give Zimbabweans the opportunity to buy and fulfil a dream. Marketing is a key part of telling that story, which is why we saw value in this partnership.”
He added: “We announced Jah Prayzah as our brand ambassador last week. The numbers he brings, combined with the league’s viewer-ship, are all part of helping us market our business on the ground.” Castle Lager Premier Soccer League reigning champions Scottland seem to have perfected the template.
The club had an exquisite kit and squad unveiling where the football business concept was taken to another level.
Scottland shirt on auction fetched a whopping US$1 million. SWAN Tobacco purchased 5 000 Scottland replicas for the club’s fans at the ceremony in a bid to enhance fan activation and brand visibility.
Ecobank availed US$1.5 million to Scottland to power their debut campaign in the CAF Champions League this year.
Club chairman Everson Chatambudza said the club have secured a US$10 million sponsorship package.
