Emmanuel Chitsika
Despite a troubled up-bringing after being orphaned at a tender age, one Chiredzi Stars budding soccer winger aims higher after a ray of hope shone on him from well-wishers and caring neighbours who motivated the upcoming star.
Tawanda Chatiluka also known as Porongi among his team mates says his dream will be donning the famous Blue and White stripe of decorated Zimbabwe soccer giants Dynamos Dembare and for him the sky should be the limit.
Born 20 years ago in Chitungwiza, the exciting winger who is a dribbling wizard and composed when in possession and getting past his markers says he aims higher on the football journey he embarked on at a young age.
“The manner in which I started playing soccer is a bit funny. I went at an institution where young people were being fed and was invited to turn up for training the following day. By then I started playing for Chitungwiza-based side Eagles which was in my neighbourhood.
“From then, the club started paying my school fees and that is the point in time when I lost my parents and that marked the dawn of a new era of struggles to make ends meet. Fortunately the owner of the team took care of my welfare and I started staying at his place of residence.
My neighbour started looking after my needs like providing soccer boots for me and other forms of encouragement. I am also grateful to then Seke High School Head who weighed in with his support. I then joined Black Rhinos plying their trade in Division One before being off-loaded from the first team resulting in my trek downwards to Chiredzi,” said Chatiluka.
The dribbling wizard says he is enjoying his time at Chiredzi Stars though he aims higher at the grand stage in the Castle Lager premier league with the big guns.
“In Chiredzi, I joined Lowveld United better known as ‘Mahwindi’ before joining Chiredzi Stars. Despite the setback of being off-loaded then, I got support to soldier on from fellow peers and adults in my hood because after the disappointment, I started working as an assistant builder. Initially, the move was initiated by premiership side Triangle United so am patiently waiting for their promise though my heart is with Dynamos,’ said Chatulika
Like any other ambitious footballer, Chatiluka said despite his target to cater for his fellow two siblings, he would wish to ensure youth are occupied from drug and substance abuse by establishing sporting facilities that harness their talents.
“First of all would i like to look after my fellow siblings so that they lead a proper and decent life. Fellow ghetto youth will also be among my major priorities. I want to support them especially those who want to pursue footballing careers so that they realise their dreams. If resources permit, I dream of one day owning a soccer academy for junior players,” he added.
