Pam's Academy has made a plea for sponsorship as financial challenges continue to threaten the dreams of many young footballers under its development system. The academy’s head coach, Brighton Pamhirwa, says the situation has become increasingly difficult, with several players forced to rely on friends and struggling parents to remain active in football.
Some of the players, according to Pamhirwa, are staying with friends in order to continue training and playing for the academy, while others come from single-parent families that are already facing severe financial hardship. He described sponsorship as the biggest challenge currently facing Pam's Academy.
“Sponsorship is the biggest challenge we have faced as Pams Academy. Even though some of the parents try to chip in, we still struggle,” said Pamhirwa.
Despite the financial difficulties, the academy has continued to survive through the support of community members and willing parents who have been assisting throughout the season with transport, food, and other basic requirements needed by the players.
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Pams Academy has built a strong reputation for producing talented footballers who go on to play at the highest level. Several of its former players are currently featured in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Thubelihle Jubani is now with FC Platinum, while Menford Mudzimu and Leo Hofisi are at Triangle United. Fitzgerald Banda and Takunda Manyuchi are with Bikita Minerals, alongside Takudzwa Mzenda.
In addition to those already in the PSL, more than 25 former Pams Academy players are competing across Division One leagues in the Northern, Eastern, Central, and Southern regions. The academy is also in negotiations over the future of one of its promising players, Arthur Sibanda, who is currently on loan at Tonota FC in Botswana’s Division One from Chegutu Pirates. Tonota FC are reportedly keen to sign him on a permanent deal after his impressive performances.
Despite its proven track record in player development, questions are now being raised over why Pamhirwa has not yet been considered for a role within the Zimbabwe Under-17 coaching structures, given the number of players he has successfully groomed for top-flight football.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Pamhirwa has taken a firm stance on player development and transfers. He revealed that Pams Academy will not release any players prematurely, insisting that they will only move on when he is satisfied they are fully ready for professional football at the highest level.
“For the 2026 season, I won’t release any player until I see that he is now ready to play in the PSL,” he said. Pamhirwa added that his goal is to ensure players move to clubs that offer clear career paths and not environments that could damage their football futures.
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