Chronicle Editor
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZPC Hwange wrapped up its successful 2024 Zifa Southern Region campaign with a night to remember in Hwange town on Friday when outstanding players were rewarded for guiding the team into the Castle Lager Premiership.
The power generators, in their 35th year of campaigning in the league and boasting a record of never having been relegated, eventually found the right chord under gaffer Mebelo Njekwa, successfully competing against all rivals to win promotion.
They led the table from start to finish as they consistently posted good results at home and away.
The event, a momentous and historic occasion was attended by a traditional chief, Central Government and Local Government officials, business partners, ZPC Hwange employees and supporters.
In an interview yesterday, championship winning chairman Farai Mahachi said he felt the whole team deserved awards after putting up a brilliant fight to earn a ticket to the elite league.
“The whole team deserved the awards, and it was so difficult to select the ultimate winners. Stakeholders assisted in the selection and sponsorship of certain awards,” said Mahachi.
Genesis, SportsZone and Safurnco were some of the sponsors of the awards that saw players walk away with varying amounts as prizes after a year’s hard work.
“The technical team and players were amazing, and the leadership of coach Njekwa was par excellence. We believe we are going into the PSL with our heads up and shoulders high,” said Mahachi.
He said to his fellow management the promotion was a dream come true for an institution that laboured for 35 years to gain promotion.
Senior company management was present and the patron of the team, Engineer Mukundu was praised for his support and leadership.
Members of the Zifa Southern Region management were in attendance.
Award Winners
Golden Boot — Justin Kaunda (US$200)
Player of the Year — Israel Mukahanana US$300
Goalkeeper of the Year — Harmony Nare US$200
Young Player of the Year — Brendon Mathe US$200
Most Consistent Player — Admire Banda US$200
Most Loyal Player — Mogen Nyoni US$200
Players Player of the Year — Justin Kaunda US$200
Supporters Player of the Year — Justin Kaunda US$200
Most Disciplined Player — Gerald Ndlovu US$200
Chairman’s Award — Brendon Mathe US$200
Most Improved Player — Beloved Mutambisi US$150
Genesis Award — Obert Malajila US$50 and soccer boots
Online Reporter