TTP tournament rolls into life
THE third edition of the annual Trust the Process Under-18 Soccer Tournament rolls into life today (Friday) in the sprawling suburb of Dangamvura in Mutare.
The annual Trust the Process Under-18 Soccer Tournament, which will be held at Dangamvura Grounds (Beit Hall Grounds) on National Unity Day, has previously ignited long standing rivalry of local junior football clubs.
Financier of the initiative, Kudzanai ‘Sean Kobz Junior’ Mbondo, said the event is growing from strength to strength since its inception.
“We are excited that we will have the third edition of this event this year. From humble beginnings, we are happy that the event is growing from strength to strength since its inception. This is one of the ways we have been trying to help the local community and ensure that youths get a platform to showcase their talents.
“Junior football is something which is very important. I hope as a nation we can keep on helping these youngsters through these junior tournaments. Lastly, we can only wish all the participating teams the best and let us keep on ‘Trusting’ the process,” said Mbondo.
The event, just like in its previous editions, is sponsored by the Chinese-based clothing company, Trust the Process ZW, which is owned by the Dangamvura-born Mbondo.
Previous editions of the tournament featured at least eight Under-18 teams from around Dangamvura and other suburbs in Mutare.
Friends of the game of football, including former Gunners and CAPS United boss, Cuthbert Chitima, were treated to some exhilarating football action during last year’s edition of the competition.
Elite Academy of Dangamvura successfully defended their title when they emerged winners of last year’s edition of the competition, while Faith Drive of Dangamvura settled for the bridesmaid position.
Sporting Athletic of Hobhouse came third.
Faith Drive, P Stars, AC Academy, All Stars, Eastville, Elite Academy, Jomo Cosmos, Checheche, Masasi Academy and Hobhouse suburb-based Sporting Athletic made up the list of teams that took part in the tournament.
In the inaugural edition of the event, Elite Academy were the winners and walked away with the first prize, while P Stars Juniors were the runners-up.
In addition to Trust the Process ZW, the tournament is supported by several community organisations and businesses.
This year’s edition has already received corporate backing from the non-profit Clubhouse International, the Texas-based Strive Tennis and Dangamvura United FC.
The tournament is also receiving significant support from Zimbabwean international striker, Nyasha Mushekwi, who is currently plying his trade in the Chinese Super League.
Last year, Mushekwi doled out team kits for the Trust The Process tournament.