🇿🇼ZimbabweSouthern Africa
Zifa launches initiatives to revive grassroots football and develop talent
via NewsDay Zimbabwe5 min read
The Zimbabwe Football Association Zifa has introduced two key initiatives, the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup and the BancABC Roots Impact Programme, to transform the nation's football landscape. These programs aim to build the sport's foundation by connecting grassroots football with elite structures, providing a clear pathway for players from villages, schools, and communities to reach the national team. Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi emphasized that the focus is on development and creating opportunities rather than solely on winning trophies. The Munhumutapa Challenge Cup is a nationwide competition encompassing amateur, grassroots, and top-flight clubs, and integrates women's football, futsal, and beach soccer. Zifa executive committee member for competitions, Thomas Marambanyika, stated that the tournament will adhere to Caf and Fifa standards to ensure professionalism and fairness. The BancABC Roots Impact Programme will concentrate on schools and community centers, serving as a talent identification pipeline. Competitions manager Kudzai Chitima highlighted the program's goal to provide young players with consistent competitive match experience, crucial for their growth. Acting secretary Norman Gwangwadza and technical director Dominique Niyonzima will oversee coordination across all provinces, with a strategy prioritizing gender inclusion, broader grassroots reach, and the integration of various football formats.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
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