Riverplate, Zebra Revolution, and Sizinda Queens Crowned CK Nyoni Foundation Tournament Champions
Loraine Phiri
Riverplate, Zebra Revolution, and Sizinda Queens were crowned champions of the CK Nyoni Foundation Tournament finals held on Saturday at Indlovu Youth Centre in Bulawayo
The competition, organised by the Tshabalala Sizinda Old School, was sponsored by the CK Nyoni Foundation, led by former Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest player Cecil Nyoni. His foundation aims to support and empower young athletes in his hometown of Tshabalala. Additional support came from Khaya Arts, Indlovu Youth Center, Mr Sinkwa, Arch360 Branding, LM Auctioneers, Sports Zone, Sky Roads, Zimpapers (Chronicle and Sunday News) and Matebeleland Pulse.
The tournament, which began in September with preliminary rounds on the 21st and 28th, culminated on October 4 with thrilling finals that showcased some of the best young football and netball talent in the city.
In the Under-10 football final, Riverplate defeated Zebra Revolution 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw, with Riverplate goalkeeper Terence Mathe proving decisive and earning himself a Sky Roads sports voucher for new boots. In the Under-12 boys’ final, Zebra Revolution secured a 1-0 victory over Sizinda Pirates thanks to a first-half strike from Stanley Mpande.
On the netball court, Sizinda Queens claimed the women’s title after overcoming Indlovu Queens. Tendai Ncube (Sizinda Queens) was named Most Valuable Player, Bonakele Dube (Khaya Arts) the best defender, and Valerie Sibanda (Sizinda Queens) took home the Golden Hand award.
Individual accolades were also handed out across the age groups, celebrating outstanding performances throughout the tournament. In the Under-10 category, Zebra Revolution’s Ashbie Chareka was named Most Valuable Player (MVP), Riverplate’s Terence Mathe received the Golden Glove, and his teammate Joshavia Mguni claimed the Golden Boot. In the Under-12 division, Peter Sibanda of Sizinda Pirates was voted MVP, Walter Mtendahama of Zebra Revolution earned the Golden Glove, while the Golden Boot went to Tshabalala Warriors’ Demai Maseko.
Guest of honor Collin Nyambiya, a former national and international footballer and founder of young Flying Stars Soccer Academy, applauded the organisers, players, and parents for making the tournament a success.
“I want to thank the parents for allowing their children to take part and showcase their talent,” he said. “Football is not just a sport it can be a career. More importantly, it keeps our children occupied, disciplined, and away from drugs and substance abuse. Sport builds character and opens up opportunities for our young people.”
Nyambiya also praised the quality of play on display. “Watching the Under-10s and Under-12s was a joy. The talent here is outstanding, and the future looks bright for the Tshabalala-Sizinda community. I also commend the coaches for their patience and discipline in guiding these young athletes.”
He further urged the community to invest in upgrading the Indlovu Youth Centre ground. “This field has been used for many years, but it needs improvement. If we can fence it, drill a borehole, and lay grass, it will attract more children and make the game more enjoyable. With unity, this can be done.”
The sense of collective effort was echoed by Tshabalala-Sizinda Old School chairman Themba Phiri, who expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the CK Nyoni Foundation, Indlovu Youth Centre, Khaya Arts, Mr Sinkwa, Zimpapers, Arch 360 Branding, Sports Zone, Sky Roads, LM Auctioneers, Matebeleland Pulse and the wider Tshabalala-Sizinda community.
One of the sponsors, Itai Ephias Mugwagwa of Arch 360 Branding, highlighted the importance of supporting grassroots sport.
“We are proud to have supported this tournament alongside LM Auctioneers,” he said. “Our donation of medals, balls, cones, and banners is a way of giving back to the community. Sport is more than just a game it brings people together, instills discipline, and gives young people a chance to grow. Grassroots tournaments like this one are the foundation on which future champions are built, but more importantly, they nurture lifelong friendships, values, and community spirit.”
By sunset, the winners had lifted their trophies, but the tournament left behind more than silverware. It carried with it a promise that with investment, unity, and belief, the dusty fields of Tshabalala and Sizinda can continue to produce champions, both on and off the pitch.
