Soccer lovers gathered at the Madombidzha soccer field on Sunday for a remembrance tournament held in honour of Mashudu "MJ Vhafunzi" Ramavhoya, a well-known official of Madombidzha Arsenal, who passed away in June.
Eight teams participated in the tournament, which was played across two fields. The final match saw Mpheni Academy defeat Madombidzha Arsenal 2-0 to claim the championship title.
Ramavhoya was one of the mentors who played a role in developing Phumudzo Manenzhe, a former Orlando Pirates player and current SuperSport TV soccer analyst. During the event, Ramavhoya's family received a framed photograph in remembrance of his contribution to local football.
The champions, Mpheni Academy, received a trophy and R2,000 in prize money. Runners-up Madombidzha Arsenal took home R1,000, while the semi-finalists, Western Stars and Stone Breakers, each received R500.
Individual accolades went to Mpheni Academy players: Emanuel Mphephu was named Player of the Tournament, Dakalo Tshivhase received the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award, and Rudzani Khodobo was the tournament's top goal scorer.
One of the tournament organisers, Mr Trinity Tshivhula, said the event aimed to keep young people engaged and away from harmful activities during the festive season. He added that it also served as a platform to scout talented players from the region.
"Sometimes players just need to find their feet a bit when they come from the lower divisions," said Tshivhula, who confirmed that the tournament would now be held annually.