The unsung heroine of Zimbabwean football

 

 

Runodada Witness

Zim Now Reporter

 

In a football world where men often dominate, Kudzai Kadzombe is standing out as a shining example of how women with dedication and passion for the sport can actually become game changers.

For over a dozen years, Kadzombe has been quietly funding and nurturing young football talent in Zimbabwe through her soccer academy, FC Dutch Football Academy.

Her selfless contributions have paved the way for numerous players to reach the pinnacle of Zimbabwean football.

One of the local Premiership’s best players in recent years, Donald “Kante” Mudadi is a product of Dutch Academy.

Now, she has set her sights on becoming a ZIFA Executive Board member.

Kadzombe's love affair with football began many years ago, but it's her work at the grassroots level that has truly made a lasting impact.

Through FC Dutch Football Academy, she has provided a platform for young players to hone their skills, gain valuable experience, and ultimately, secure professional contracts with top Zimbabwean clubs.

The list of players who have benefited from Kadzombe's guidance is impressive, to say the least.

The likes of Delic Murimba who made a name at 2023 PSL champions Ngezi Platinum Stars and Never Rauzhi of Highlanders are some of the glaring examples.

Kadzombe's commitment to developing Zimbabwean football is unwavering, and her aspirations to join the ZIFA Executive Board are driven by a desire to share her wealth of knowledge and expertise with the wider football community.

Her vision is to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and successful football ecosystem in Zimbabwe, one that benefits players, coaches, and fans alike.

"I'm passionate about developing Zimbabwean football from the grassroots up. I believe that with the right structures, support, and resources, we can produce world-class players and teams that make our nation proud." Kudzai Kadzombe.

Last weekend, she took her football philanthropy to Chitungwiza where she donated soccer balls to local academies Cspro and Dreamers.

Cspro are the brainchild of former Sparta Praha and Warriors defender Costa Nhamoinesu while Dreamers were founded by ex-CAPS United defender Charles Manjera.

Kadzombe’s gesture was appreciated by government.

Tawanda Chikono, Principal Sport and Recreation Officer for Chitungwiza District in the Ministry of Sport said: “We express our gratitude for the kind gesture, as it will bring positive impact on the development of youth football in Chitungwiza.

“The donated balls will undoubtedly contribute to improved skills, fitness levels, and overall enjoyment of the game for the young players.”

As Kadzombe prepares to take the next step in her football journey, her legacy as a pioneer and champion of grassroots football in Zimbabwe is already assured.

Her selflessness, dedication, and passion for the beautiful game has inspired countless young players, and her influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Zimbabwean football for years to come.

Kadzombe is a shining example of what women can do in football administration if given an opportunity.

She is one of the six female candidates out of a list of 37 candidates vying for the six board member positions when ZIFA holds elections on January 25.

Kadzombe has already been endorsed by several high profile football personalities including the legendary Stanford “Stix” Mtizwa.

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