CHAIRPERSON of Heart Women’s Soccer League Theresa Maguraushe wants the historic League’s 16-team knockout tournament that kicks off tomorrow at The Heart Stadium in Waterfalls, Harare, to leave a lasting legacy that encourages women to follow their dreams.
The tournament is part of the $320 000 sponsorship package unveiled by Walter Magaya through his Heart Group of companies a month ago to uplift and professionalise the women’s game in the country.
The players and team management checked in at The Yadah hotel on Tuesday ahead of the tournament and will be domiciled there for the next five days.
Maguraushe speaking at a welcome dinner for the teams on the eve of the tournament, welcomed the players and urged the fans to come out in full force to support their teams.
“First and foremost I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all participating teams, players, and fans to the inaugural Heart Women Soccer League Tournament! This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in our journey to empower women through football,” she said.
“To the players, I say: give it your all, showcase your talent, and inspire the next generation. To the fans, your energy and support will fuel the passion on the pitch. Let’s unite and celebrate the beauty of women’s football!”
The veteran women’s football administrator stressed the importance of professionalism adding that the tournament is the best advert of the women’s game in Zimbabwe.
“This tournament embodies our organisation’s commitment to growing women’s football, fostering talent, and promoting equality,” added Maguraushe.
“Our long-term vision is to create a sustainable, professional league that provides opportunities for women to excel in football, both on and off the pitch. This event marks the first step towards achieving that vision, and we’re excited to watch it unfold.”
Maguraushe believes that this tournament is the beginning of a movement that will leave a lasting legacy in women’s football in Zimbabwe.
“We envision this tournament inspiring a lasting legacy that transcends the pitch. We hope to create a movement that encourages young girls to chase their football dreams, fosters a culture of empowerment, and promotes inclusivity,” she said.
“We aspire to leave a footprint that says: ‘Women’s football matters, and we’re here to stay.’ This tournament is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and we’re honored to be part of shaping the future of women’s football.”
Tournament Director Arthur Gorejena was also singing from the same hymn book as Maguraushe and he believes that they have put everything in place to send a message through this tournament that, women’s game has turned a corner.
“We would like to thank our sponsor Prophet Magaya for availing a top notch facility like The Heart Stadium and also generously providing Yadah Hotel to house over 600 official delegates, ensuring convenience and comfort,” he said.
“All the logistics from the referees, medical staff and security, everything is now in place, what is just left is for the girls to express themselves on the pitch tomorrow. We are committed to delivering a successful and memorable tournament for women’s soccer in Zimbabwe.”
Fixtures
Black Rhinos Queens vs Mutare City Queens
Chapungu Queens vs Faith Drive Academy
Herentals Queens vs Conduit Academy
Correctional Queens vs Highlanders Royals.
Harare City Queens vs MSU
Platinum Royals vs Sheasham Gweru Queens.
Maningi YSA vs ZRP Queens.
Black Mambas Queens vs Hope Academy.
