Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
FORMER Warriors striker Tendai Ndoro was laid to rest at West Park Cemetery in Bulawayo following an emotional send-off that brought together family, friends, fans, and the wider football fraternity.
Mourners first gathered at the Amphitheatre in Bulawayo to celebrate the life of the late forward, who was affectionately known as “Fire” for his explosive talent on the pitch. His remains were later paraded at Barbourfields Stadium, a venue that holds historic significance in Zimbabwean football, before burial at West Park.
Born and raised in Bulawayo, Ndoro’s journey began at grassroots level before he rose to become one of the country’s most admired strikers, shining both locally and internationally with his flair and determination.
Tributes poured in from fellow footballers, administrators, and fans who described him as a gifted star who inspired many.
“My heart is bleeding. It is so painful to see this young man motionless. We took him from Botswana, and when he came, he helped us win our first trophy at Mandava. He is the one who put us on the map as Chicken Inn,” Chicken Inn FC Representative, Tavengwa Hara said.
“This boy was fire. He is the one who forced me to retire from football. He made things happen on the football pitch,” Footballers Association Representative, Herbert Dick noted.
Zimbabwean football legend Madinda Ndlovu also shared his grief.
“I am heartbroken because we have lost a star. He was coached by my brother, the late Adam Ndlovu,” Zimbabwe Football legend, Madinda Ndlovu expressed.
“We are gathered here to celebrate the life of Tendai Ndoro. We salute our grassroots coaches for nurturing the dreams of our boys. It was grassroots football that made him the most loved and admired football star,” ZIFA Southern Region Representative, Llyod Munhanga said.
“We thank everyone for giving Ndoro a befitting send-off. Ndoro was a great player, he lit up the stage in the country’s football fraternity,” SRC Representative, Dave Simba added.
The Ndoro family extended appreciation to the South African and local football fraternity for giving the former Warriors star a befitting send-off.
“As a family, we lost a caring and loving son. We want to thank the Bulawayo community for supporting us during this difficult time,” Tendai Ndoro, Uncle, Farai Mvuri said.
As a demonstration of the flame showcased by the football star on the pitch, his body was also taken to Barboufields Stadium for a final parade before being taken to West Park Cemetery, where he was laid to rest.
