DeMbare legend Shaya turns 75

IN the year that Dynamos legend George Shaya should have been celebrating his diamond anniversary in style, the crisis rocking the club that gave him fame somewhat blighted his birthday celebrations in Harare yesterday.

Five-time Soccer Star of the Year Shaya turned 75 yesterday.

A group of some of the Dynamos legends led by former winger David George organised a bash to celebrate the life of the man who used to dazzle DeMbare’s opponents in the 1970s.

But there was no doubting that the serious threat of Dynamos being relegated for the first time since its formation in 1963 dominated the discussions at Shaya’s birthday party.

Edward Sadomba and Laban Kandi were among some former players who attended the party.

George said they decided to throw a party for the man who was affectionately known during his heyday as “Mastermind’’ in special recognition of the role he played for Dynamos.

“As Dynamos sons, we have just decided to celebrate together with one of our own during his special day.

George Shaya is not just a Dynamos legend, but one of the best players to ever emerge in this country,” said George.

“Shaya has turned 75 and we wish him all well. We organised this small function just to express our undying love for one of the best players ever to emerge from this country.

“You cannot talk of Dynamos without mentioning his name. You cannot talk of Zimbabwean football without talking of George Shaya.

“We set down with colleagues and we resolved to celebrate together with Shaya on his birthday. It is also during times like these that we meet as Dynamos sons and take time to reflect on the time we spent at the institution called Dynamos,” George said.

Shaya was also at the helm of Dynamos