Vana Vedu Football Club manager Lionel M. Nyanhi said the mini soccer tournament held on Saturday at B&P Study Centre in Chitungwiza was an assessment to see where loopholes are and how they can be fixed in their teams.
Three teams registered for the event, including B&P Academy, Vana Vedu Academy, and Early Birds Academy.
The champions from under 11, 13, 15, and 17 disciplines walked away with gold medals and a trophy, silver medals, and a ball to the 2nd placed, and the 3rd won a ball.
Speaking at the sidelines of the event, Nyanhi said
“We had a good time today. This thing is not just an activity, but it helps us to relieve pressure and improve mental health. The games we played today were an assessment to see where we need to improve; coaches had learned a lot.”
Team captain Clinton “maLeft” Ndhlovu said all their teams displayed professional football; they have good coordination and skills. What is needed now are goals for them to conquer.
Tatenda “Lukaku” Mushati, under 17 goalkeeper who helped the team to win in penalties, acknowledged the good performance by his fellow colleagues.
“We had a tough game, especially our last game, which led us to penalties; however, I thank my fellow boys for managing to take the trophy home.”
The tournament also featured a big match between parents and teachers, which was labeled as a must by one of the parents, Mrs. Shoko, which helps them to reduce diseases.
She encouraged organizers to arrange a slot whenever they carry these tournaments for their well-being.
Vana Vedu Football Academy is under a non-governmental organization, Vana Vedu, based in Chitungwiza, founded by Chipo Mahamba.
Mahamba said following the scooping of the Under 17 trophy.
“This comes after the hard work of our players. The game was not easy; it took their energy for them to be champions. Also, the coach, our captains, and goalkeepers made us proud.”
“It is our first prize; we are super happy. We had long awaited for it,” she said.
Results of the tournament:
Vana Vedu U11… lost 2-0
U13 lost… 3-5 on penalties against Early Birds
U15 lost 0-1 to Early Birds
U17 won 4-2 on penalties against Early Birds
Goalkeeper Lukaku saved the team in that game.
