Story by Wellington Makonese

ZION Christian Church-owned Samuel Centenary Academy U19 football team has left for Belgium where it is set to play professional matches and tour iconic sporting facilities.

The budding footballers have a unique opportunity for six days to have expert training on the sports tour and international exchange visit in Belgium.

The youngsters believe it is an opportunity to make a mark on an international arena in a territory where the Warriors prospect, Bill Antonio and defender Munashe Garan’anga are plying their trade.

“We thank the church for the opportunity which many of our youth don’t get. We want to make a mark represent our nation and the church as well,” said a player.

Another said, “This is a good experience for some of us to break into Europe after showcasing our talent.”

The Zion Christian Church has been applauded for broadening the student’s horizons through educational and sports exchange programmes.

Samuel Centenary Academy U19 head coach, Malvern Moyo said, “We have had a lengthy ban as a nation and interactions with the rest had minimised. It is then good that we have had churches that do not just preach but give youth space to explore talents in all facets.

“We are taking this trip as a learning experience not just results but a chance to develop our youth for the good of the nation. We hope that other churches do likewise.”

The Samuel Centenary Academy is one of the ZCC flagship schools and will be expected to play friendly ties with top teams in Belgium, and also attend professional soccer matches and training sessions.

Belgium’s top-tier league has been home to yesteryear Zimbabwean stars such as Knowledge Musona, Honour Gombami, Nyasha Mushekwi and Moses Chunga, among others