From ghetto to Premier League glory: Lee Tinashe M...

From ghetto to Premier League glory: Lee Tinashe Madziro’s journey

Patience Muchemwa

His rise from playing streets football to becoming a legend in the football circles speaks volumes about his tenacity. He started by playing for some local teams like Real Stars F.C, Eastview Rangers and Grayham F.C.

A premier league goalkeeping star, Lee Tinashe Madziro was born on November 26, 1997 at Bonda Mission Hospital in Manicaland Province. Madziro is the first born in a family of two.

He grew up in the ghetto of Mabvuku and later relocated to Eastview with his mother and young sister.

Madziro was not ushered into this world with a silver spoon in his hand let alone in his mouth. He started playing football in 2008 when he was in Grade Six. No one could imagine that this tall, dark skinned boy would assume premier league goalkeeper status given his poor background.

**Lee Tinashe Madziro stretches to take a kick**

Madziro attended Mabvuku Primary School before proceeding to Mabvuku High School where he was a recipient of many soccer awards during school tournaments.

He got inspiration and support from his mother who encouraged him to keep pushing in his career. She, sadly, passed on in 2018.

“My mom was my greatest motivator and supporter, she believed in me more than anyone else.

“Now I have to work extra hard in my football career so that I can be able to provide for my young sister and myself,” the goalie said.

As a responsible brother, Madziro likes to spend time home watching television with his sister or sometimes go out with friends when he is off the playing fields.

“I have a timetable to balance my training and my life off the field.”

Madziro once played for Harare City Division 1, Dynamos Reserves, DC Academy and currently, he is playing for Simba Boys FC.

“My role model is André Onana, the Cameroon and Manchester United goalkeeper. I just like the way he plays, especially his footwork.

“I am also good on my footwork, I am a shot-stopper and my weakness is on cutting crosses but I believe I am not that bad. I am working on improving my weakness.”

Madziro said he never got any serious injury during his football career.

“What I like most about playing football is that I forget all my problems and my source of happiness is in the football field.

“To be a successful football player it requires discipline, humility and hard work.

“I don’t do rituals, I believe in God I always pray before every match.”

He said his favourite teammates are Tafadzwa Jaravani and Tichaona Chipunza. They always support him and give him advice to keep on pushing, believing that one day the hard-work will pay back.

“My favourite teams are Dynamos FC and Chelsea FC,” he said.

Madziro’s favourite meal is rice, chicken and salad.

“My best football moment was when my team Simba Bhora qualified to play in the Premier Soccer League.”

Madziro’s dream is to play in the English Premier League.

“I also wish to meet my idol, André Onana one day either at AFCON or in the EPL.”

“My advice to the young generation is: Please stay away from drugs and alcohol abuse, be disciplined and be dedicated.”