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Tadious Manyepo Sports Reporter
AS they bid to conform to the dictates of PSL club licensing, Harare City have partnered Waddilove High School in their efforts to develop grassroots football. The partnership was launched at the Marondera-based institution yesterday, with both parties expressing optimism the project will go a long way in identifying and nurturing talent. The municipal club, who already have several junior players at primary schools, has sent eight Under-15 players and two Under-17 boys on scholarship to the school.

The Under-15 players have already made significant impact at the school by helping them qualify for the Mashonaland East provincial Copa Coca-Cola finals to be staged at St Francis of Assisi in Chivhu next Friday.

The marriage will, among other things, see Harare City providing technical expertise and kits to the school.
A high-powered delegation from the top-flight side, led by chief executive Tafadzwa Bhasera, assistant coach Mark Mathe, marketing manager Osborn Maranda, media officer Michael Chideme as well as players, who include captain Tendai Samanja and midfielder Tatenda Tumba, attended the launch yesterday.

Maranda, who is credited for facilitating the union between the two organisations, said the partnership will go a long way in developing football in the country.

“As Harare City, we have decided to partner Waddilove High School as an initiative to develop football.
“The PSL club licensing requires teams to have a vibrant junior development structures.
“So by partnering with such a reputable institution like Waddilove, we are fulfilling that.

“Although we already have some well-structured development organs in our team, we saw it fit to spread our wings to schools and we settled for Waddilove.

“Our vision as Harare City is to nurture talent and make players realise their dreams. By partnering Waddilove, we have also seen that there is life beyond the playing career.

“So, we have decided not to just nurture footballing talent, but to empower these youngsters education-wise.
“It is our hope that the partnership will bring the desired results.
“We are looking at bringing more players to the institution.

“We will also bring girls starting next year,’’ said Maranda.
Waddilove High deputy head Lizzie Muvevi said her institution will never be the same again.
“It has always been our dream to develop football.

“I am glad that Harare City have decided to partner with us in developing soccer.
“We cannot ask for more than that. Harare City is not just a reputable club, they are a very competitive outfit, doing exceptionally well in the Premier League at the moment.

“We hope and trust that the journey we have started will be smooth.
“I am also glad to announce that the players Harare City have brought and the team’s efforts has already inspired us to success in Marondera District.

“We are preparing to play in the provincial finals next week and l am confident we will win the ticket to represent Mashonaland East in the Nash Copa Coca-Cola to be played in Zvishavane,” said Muvevi.