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Takudzwa Chitsiga

Sports Reporter

FORMER Highlanders, Dynamos and CAPS United midfielder, Stephen Alimenda, has registered his new academy with the ZIFA Harare Province Division Two league.

The Alimenda Stephen Academy is based in Harare’s Glen Norah high density suburb.

Alimenda, a Level Two coaching badge holder, said he was influenced by the need to promote development in junior football structures.

He feels football standards in the country have been going down.

ASA caters for the Under-12, Under-14, Under-16 and Under-18 age groups.

“I am very happy with the progress I have made so far and it is good that I am doing what I love most, that is player development,’’ Alimenda said.

“I discovered that there is a huge gap between the top-flight and grassroots development structures and this pushed me to take the initiative to groom raw talent.

“I have very talented players who I think, given the opportunities like the ones I got, will do very well in the near future.

“Young footballers need our support so that they can become professionals, which is something not easy, and I am trying by all means to ensure that we bridge that gap.”

The former national team player said they were facing challenges, ranging from lack of financial support to agents who just come and take their players.

“It is so disheartening that we have some players who may show potential, especially in the rural areas, but they will never have an opportunity to play at the highest level,’’ he said.

“I hope to get sponsorship, and support, so that I will go to remote areas and scout for talent.

“Accommodation is also a challenge.

“There are a lot of players who will never realise their full potential because of their background, and that pains me a lot.

“If I can get the support, my vision is to help these people.

“We also have challenges, with the so-called player agents, who just come and take away our products.’’

He revealed he has been getting support from Ernest Muduwa, who has been his friend, since his days at Dynamos.

“I am thankful to Muduwa, whom I can say is one of the directors, as he has helped me in a number of ways,’’ he said.

“We have challenges in securing footballs, fulfilling some fixtures and all that needs everyone’s support.

“I don’t refer to my academy alone but to everyone as we are in the same predicament.’’

He believes his team can shake the establishment in Division Two.

“I believe we are not going to just add up the numbers in the league but to play competitively,’’ he said.

“I know it will be an opportunity for the youngsters like Keith Murungweni, who is my team captain, to showcase their talents.//