Story by Mthokozisi Dube
SCOUTING for football talent has intensified at Herentals Group of Colleges as zonal competitions get underway across the country ahead of the institution’s national tournament set for Harare next month.
The colleges’ structured development pathway, which feeds into Herentals Football Club and Herentals Queens, is once again under the spotlight as learners compete for places at the national finals scheduled for July 23 to 24.
Bulawayo Province staged its zonal competitions on Friday, with young footballers showcasing their skills in a highly competitive environment as they sought qualification for the national showcase.
The institution has built its sporting reputation on a strong grassroots system, where learners are given structured opportunities to progress from school-level competitions into professional football structures.
Participants said the platform continues to open doors for young talent across the country.
“It was a tough competition, but we are happy for the opportunity to showcase our sporting excellence. Our target is to go to the national finals, where scouting for the two top-flight teams will be done,” a footballer said.
“My dream is to play for Herentals Queens one day, and I see it becoming a reality,” a female footballer said.
“As Herentals learners, we are happy to be given this platform to showcase our talent. The institution has a vibrant junior policy,” a learner said.
“I am hoping to one day turn out for Herentals Queens. I am really passionate about football, hence I am enjoying this event,” another participant said.
Herentals Management Committee member Mduduzi Ndlovu said the institution remains committed to nurturing talent through a structured scouting system.
“Today it’s a big day for Herentals College. As you know, the institution is a big platform for both academic and sporting excellence. We are hosting zonal competitions in preparation for our national event in Harare from the 23rd to the 24th of July. We have many centres competing, and we are selecting players for our teams. We are trying to identify talent for both Herentals FC and Herentals Queens, who are the defending champions. It’s another pathway we are providing for the learners,” he said.
Herentals remains one of the most consistent sides in the Premier Soccer League, while its women’s team continues to dominate the Women’s Premier Soccer League as five-time defending champions.
