Game-On Reporter
Lewis Muzhara has launched the inaugural LM Auctioneers Girls Soccer Festival, a tournament aimed at empowering girls from rural and marginalised communities through football.
The festival, which will be held in Zaka District under the theme #No to Drugs #Mental health has no boundaries, will feature eight teams drawn from schools and a youth academy across the district.
A draw will be conducted a month before the tournament, with St Joseph’s and Mutsambwa seeded into separate groups.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage, with winners progressing through the semi-finals to the final.
Muzhara, who is also a long-time advocate for women’s football, said the festival was designed to create opportunities for girls who often have limited access to organised sport.
“This festival is about giving girls from rural and marginalised communities a platform to showcase their talent and believe that football has no boundaries,” Muzhara said.
“We want these girls to gain confidence, build friendships and have the opportunity to be seen by coaches and scouts. Our hope is that some will progress to junior national teams, local premier league clubs and even secure scholarships abroad.”
Muzhara added that the tournament seeks to promote gender equality, discourage drug abuse and raise awareness around mental health among young people.
“Mental health has no boundaries, and neither should opportunities for the girl child. We are using sport to bring communities together while encouraging healthy lifestyles, teamwork and personal development,” he said
He said that LM Auctioneers had committed resources to ensure the event becomes a lasting fixture on the district’s sporting calendar.
“We are passionate about the girl child and about women’s football. This is only the beginning.
“Our vision is to create a sustainable platform where talented girls from every corner of Zaka can be identified, developed and exposed to higher levels of the game,” he said.
Participating teams are St Joseph’s High School, Mutsambwa High School, Magara High School, Rudhanda High School, Mutimwi High School, Chimbwembwe High School, Maningi Youth Soccer Academy and Dzoro High School.
