Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Innocent Kurira, innocent.kurira@chronicle.co.zw
THE stage is set for the second edition of the Johannes Ngodzo Annual Football Tournament, scheduled to take place starting tomorrow through to Sunday at Mzilikazi Primary School, in Bulawayo.
The two-day tournament will feature four Under-15 and Under-17 teams from Mzilikazi and Makokoba townships, competing in a round-robin format. The team with the most points will be crowned the winner.
Proceeds from the event will support local youth development programmes and initiatives.
The tournament aims to promote youth development and social cohesion through football.
According to Ngodzo, all is in place ahead of the competition.
“We are grateful for the support of the local business community. Their backing is a testament to the power of football to bring people together and drive positive change in our communities. As a former player, I understand the importance of providing young players with opportunities to develop their skills and showcase their talents. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about creating a platform for young players to learn, grow and gain valuable experience. I’m excited to see the talent that will be on display, and I’m confident that this tournament will help uncover the next generation of Zimbabwean football stars,” said Ngodzo.
“I’m also proud to say that this tournament is not just about football; it’s about promoting social cohesion and community development. By bringing together teams from different townships and backgrounds, we’re helping to build bridges and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose. I believe that football has the power to transform lives and communities, and I’m committed to using this tournament as a catalyst for positive change in our city,” said Ngodzo.
Ngodzo, a former Zimbabwe international and football legend, has been instrumental in organising the tournament. He believes that events like these can help identify and nurture young talent, citing the examples of Peter Ndlovu, Benjamin Mwaruwari and himself.
The tournament has received support from various individuals and organisations, including Daniel Ndlovu, Irvine Khumalo, Foster Maseko, Lucky Dube, Nhlanhla Moyo and Mthokozisi Mlotshwa.
Last year’s inaugural tournament featured four teams: Ali Baba Football Foundation Academy, Mzilikazi, Entumbane Stars, and Real Stars. This year’s event promises to be even more exciting, with some of the best young footballers from the region set to take part.
Ngodzo is now the head coach at Adachi FC in the Zifa Southern Region League.
The Johannes Ngodzo Annual Football Tournament is a testament to Ngodzo’s commitment to giving back to his community and promoting grassroots football development. Ngodzo, a former Warriors midfielder, rose to fame through the Highlanders junior ranks at the turn of the millennium and was capped several times.
He was awarded the Player of the Year accolade at the age of 15 while with the Highlanders juniors that had played the whole season without tasting defeat in the 1995 season.
They were coached by veteran Ali Baba Dube who has been credited for identifying the best talent in Bulawayo.
Ngodzo won many accolades during his career, including second runner-up in the 2002 Soccer Star of the Year, Highlanders Player of the Year, Grizzlers Sizzlers Player of the Month and several league titles with Highlanders.
Ngodzo’s world came crashing down on July 5, 2003 when the Warriors played in an Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier against Eritrea and he picked up an injury.
Ngodzo said he never regained full fitness after the injury and despite returning after a long lay-off in 2004, he was never the same.
—@innocentskizoe
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