Story by Jonathan Marerwa in Beijing, China
Soccer, just like any other sporting code, needs to be developed from grassroots level in order to derive maximum benefits.
These sentiments were made by renowned China-based youth soccer coach, Walter Musanhu, during the recently-held Jadel Football Academy 6th year awards ceremony in Beijing.
Musanhu, who is the founder and chief funder of the academy, said it gives him great pleasure helping in the grooming of young players.
He said the academy, which has a branch in Harare, is helping in creating a better future for children, with 278 children being members of the academy.
The former Motor Action Football Club player said he is targeting children from high density areas and other disadvantaged communities, and is paying school fees while also providing accommodation for others.
He urged business people to partner with his academy since he has been solely funding it from his savings.
Musanhu said it is his wish to have land to construct soccer facilities so as to have a fully-fledged academy modelled like those found in developed countries.
He disclosed that his academy is involved in sports tourism as he conducts tours to Zimbabwe, Spain, Germany and other parts of China, adding that soon they will be embarking on a tour of the United States of America.
He urged academy players to remain dedicated to training and to be patient so as to fully develop into modern day players under the watchful eyes of coaches who include former Warriors player, Gilbert Mushangazhike.
He also said some of the academy players are getting recognition from across the globe with some now playing for clubs in Zimbabwe, Spain and Germany.
