Zimpapers Logo

Sports Reporter

REJUVENATED midfielder, Denver Mukamba, is among the finalists for the inaugural Soccer Supporters Choice Awards.

The awards, launched in Harare yesterday, will see players vying for honours in different categories that include the Best Zimbabwe-based Footballer, Best Zimbabwean Footballer in Africa, Best Zimbabwe International Footballer and Best Zimbabwe Women Footballer.

The awards are a brainchild of the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association, in conjunction with local online platform, VusaSport.

Mukamba, who has been in fine form at Ngezi Platinum Stars, has been shortlisted for the Best Zimbabwe-based Footballer.

Also running for the same award is Nqobizitha Masuku of Highlanders, Dynamos’ Shadreck Nyahwa, FC Platinum forward Silas Songani and CAPS United defender Brandon Mpofu.

Nyasha Mushekwi, who has been enjoying a fine streak in China, has also been shortlisted for the Best Zimbabwe International Footballer.

The 34-year-old forward is leading the Golden Boot race with 21 goals in 25 appearances.

The shortlists were made by the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association.

“The Soccer Supporters Choice Awards are the first and largest supporter-led awards in Zimbabwe.

‘’How we have set up theaAwards represents an important step in recognising the role fans and the community have to play in financially supporting sport,” said ZNSSA president, Chama Mushamainza.

Winners will be decided by fans who vote for the footballer they believe has excelled the most in their respective category.

The poll is conducted online at www.vusasport.africa and a contribution of Z$200 or USD equivalent, which will go towards the prize, will be required.

Voting is open until December 31 and fans can vote as many times as they want.

VusaSport chief executive, Tafadzwa Mapanzure, said they are looking forward to a successful poll.

“Zimbabwe has a huge soccer following that is now measurable using digital footprints on social media platforms and websites.

“The huge following has however failed to transform online followers and supporters into effective customers of sport products.

“Zimbabwean Soccer can only achieve its potential if it is well supported and funded. Over-dependence on public sector subventions is slowing soccer development in the country.

“That is why mechanisms have been put in place to support organizations like the ZNNSA that promote ‘Fan-Led’ financing of sport.

“In order for our football to flourish, ZIFA, PSL, clubs and the ZNSSA need to deliberately manage three pillars that sustain sporting and economic success.

“(i) Sporting strategy — Understanding the commercial and sporting impact of signing up players and having a vibrant junior program.

“(ii) Marketing Strategy — Appreciating the importance of brand exploitation.

“(iii) Social Strategy — Realizing the need for creating social capital/currency. Sporting strategy is by far the core business of ZIFA, and clubs. VusaSport stand ready to work with soccer clubs and the league on the marketing strategy,” said Mapanzure.

Soccer Supporters Choice Awards categories:

 

Best Zimbabwean based Footballer

Denver Mukamba

Nqobizitha Masuku

Shadreck Nyahwa

Silas Songani

Brandon Mpofu

Best Zimbabwean Footballer in Africa

Khama Billiat

Tafadzwa Rusike

Onismor Bhasera

Prince Dube

Kuda Mahachi

Best Zimbabwean International Footballer

Marvelous Nakamba

Tino Kadewere

Knowledge Musona

Nyasha Mushekwi

Marshall Munetsi

Best Zimbabwean Female Footballer

Emmaculate Msipa

Talent Bizeki

Rudo Neshamba

Danai Bhobho

Rutendo Makore