Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
The Tshabalala Warriors proved unstoppable at the recent Tshabalala Sizinda Annual Sports Gala, making a clean sweep of the top awards in both soccer and overall standings.
The Warriors dominated the boys’ soccer categories, starting with the under-10 division where they lifted the championship trophy. La Masia finished as runners-up, while Gugulethu FC secured third place.
The Warriors continued their fine form in the under-12 boys’ category, successfully defending the title they won last year. La Masia again claimed second place, with Sizinda Pirates finishing third.
In soccer, Tshabalala Warriors players also dominated the individual honours. In the under-10 boys’ category, Raymond Mqo and Thandazani Mlauzi shared the Golden Boot award, while Raymond Mqo Moyo was named Most Valuable Player and Tumelo Ncube received the Golden Glove award. In the under-12 boys’ division, Jayden Monyoro of Sizinda Pirates and Thembelani Sileti of Tshabalala Warriors shared the Golden Boot, while Slick Junior of La Masia FC was named Most Valuable Player. Raymond Mqo Moyo capped an outstanding tournament by being named Player of the Tournament, while Nontokozo Phiri of Tshabalala Warriors was honoured as Coach of the Tournament.
In the girls’ soccer competition, Queen Elizabeth emerged champions after a tense penalty shootout victory over Tshabalala Queens, winning 4–1 after the final ended in a draw. Netball honours went to Springboks, who claimed the gold medal after defeating Indlovu Queens in a competitive final.
Individual brilliance was also celebrated throughout the gala. In netball, Millicent Shava of Springboks was awarded the Golden Hand, while her teammate Believe Ncube earned the Best Defender accolade. Lerato Ndlovu of Indlovu Queens was named Best Attacker for her standout performances.
Tennis competitions also showcased promising young talent across various age groups. In the under-10 girls’ category, Nobuhle Siziba won the gold medal, while Penelope Moyo and Nombulelo Mkwananzi claimed silver and bronze respectively. The under-10 boys’ division saw Lethabo Sigauke take gold, Mufaro Chabata earn silver, and Theophany Phiri secure the bronze medal.
In the under-12 girls’ tennis category, Rene Tshuma emerged as the gold medallist, followed by Cassandra Shoko with silver and Sophia Moyo taking bronze. The under-12 boys’ honours went to Tinashe Mutiwandirwa, who claimed gold, Munashe Chabata won silver, and Ryan Shoko secured bronze.
This year’s gala also introduced indigenous games as part of efforts to broaden participation and celebrate cultural heritage. In the girls’ Nodo/Igwini competition, Cassandra Shoko won gold, Angel Dube claimed silver, and Auxillia Lubambo took bronze. The boys’ Mabusa event saw Aubrey Lubambo take gold, Makhosi Dube secure silver, and Delight Nkomanzi finish with bronze.
Guest speaker Admire Madziwanzira, representing the Tshabalala–Sizinda Old School South Africa Chapter, praised the dedication of Tshabalala–Sizinda Old School, coaches, and sponsors to grassroots sport development.
“What Tshabalala–Sizinda Old School is doing is transformative. They volunteer their time freely, and that is a commitment we must never take for granted but celebrate and support,” Madziwanzira noted. “When a child receives a medal, they feel seen and celebrated. That sense of belonging is what keeps them off the streets, focused on sport, and away from substance abuse.”
“The lessons coaches teach on these pitches instill discipline, teamwork, and resilience—life skills that transcend sport. Even for those who don’t become professional athletes, these values are the foundation for a successful future. This is why parental support is so critical.”
The impact of the programme on local families was echoed by Pretty Moyo, a parent whose son was among the award winners. “I am happy that my son won an award today, and I appreciate how Tshabalala–Sizinda Old School is empowering children through sport. The programme helps nurture talent and keeps children engaged in positive activities,” she said.
Albert Ndlovu, Chairperson of the Tshabalala Residents Association, also commended the organisers and sponsors. “Tshabalala–Sizinda Old School is doing important work by keeping children engaged and nurturing their talent. Initiatives like this play a crucial role in combating the drug and substance challenges our communities face. We are grateful to the sponsors and partners who make this annual sports gala possible.”
The gala was supported by a wide range of partners, including Mr Sinkwa, Khaya Arts Production, Esats Stores, Indlovu Youth Centre, CK Nyoni Foundation, Medic Pharmacy Tshabalala, Tug-O Mania, Matebeleland Pulse, Tech Trend Creatives, Royal Pharmacy, Yoga Yoga Butchery, MSouthern Logistics, and Ndlovu Transport. The event attracted strong attendance and enthusiastic support from the Tshabalala and Sizinda communities, underscoring its growing importance on the local sports calendar.
