Living with a disability has not deterred 28-year-old Zwavhudi Zitha from Folovhodwe Maswangaduvha, who is building a youth football initiative through sport. In 2012, when he was only 14 years old, he founded the Powerboys Soccer Team. The team caters for boys aged 11 to 17, and Zitha hopes to develop it into a professional academy that produces players for top clubs.
Zitha said his passion for football drove him to start the team despite being unable to play the game himself. “I loved soccer from a very young age. Though I could not play soccer because I live with disability, I felt that it was important for me to play a role in the development of this precious sport. The love for soccer remains the driving force behind my hard work even when things are tough because we are based in a very rural setting.”
Despite limited resources, Zitha said the team has produced players who have gone on to join local sides. “Some of the boys that I have mentored and trained are now playing for local teams like Folovhodwe Stone Breakers, Chelamoya and Folovhodwe Mighty Stars.”
He said financial constraints remain the biggest challenge, including a lack of equipment and transport costs for away matches.
“A local community member, who is now late, was the one who bought us a soccer kit which is no longer in good condition. Since we have under 11, under 13, under 15 and under 17, we need more soccer kits to be able to play well without challenges.”
He added that players often have to contribute towards transport costs, which is difficult for families with limited means.
Despite these challenges, Zitha remains hopeful that his dream of turning the team into a professional academy will be realised. “One day the light will shine. All I need is the support from the community to realize my dream.”