…..as one of its junior players currently in SA, also scheduled for trials in UAE
By Decide Nhendo
Masvingo Junior Social League (MJSL) is yielding results as one of its best products, Tinovimbanashe “Junior” Chivange, is on trials in South Africa and is scheduled to go for other trials in the United Arab Emirates as his exceptional talent is being recognized locally and internationally.
Tinovimbanashe’s father Talent Chivange said he was happy that his son was going for trials to several teams and said he was confident in him that one day he would raise Masvingo’s flag higher.
“Junior is training with the South African Jomo Cosmos under 15 team and last week he was called by another team in South Africa as a guest player where he went on to showcase a thrilling performance and managed to net two goals.
“He is also being courted by many clubs like Puma Middle East who are looking at endorsing him as well after a few trials, which means he will be traveling to the UAE for trials with a scholarship on offer,” said Chivange.
Chivange said MSJL was playing a pivotal role in grooming and nurturing young talent in Masvingo, he said business communities and stakeholders willing to grow the league must promote the youthful league.
“MSJL is a league of great potential, progress and its capabilities must not be undermined as it is playing a significant role in bringing up soccer professionals from young children in Masvingo. All stakeholders willing to chip in with financial assistance must not hesitate to help the league for community development,” said Chivange.
He said Junior started playing soccer at a young age and managed to distinguish himself as an extraordinary player on the soccer field with MSJL.
“Whilst in primary, it did not take time for soccer coaches at Victoria Primary School to spot him and he even captained the school team,” said Chivange.
He said in MSJL Junior played for different teams including Rujeko Academy and Jojo Academy as well as his father’s side at Nemanwa.
Chivange said Junior’s elder brother Victor who was at Prince Edward was the first person to identify his young brother’s talent and informed him to take a closer look at him which he did and started helping him.
In a bid to grow his talent, his father said they seriously considered what Victor had said and sent Junior to trials that were being done in Harare.
In Harare at City Academy, he displayed an amazing performance which resulted in him being listed to go to Spain and Manchester City side in Dubai but failed to go due to some complications.
In 2023 alone he won the most improved and upcoming player at Harare City Academy last year and a certificate from Yadah Sports Academy.
He is under the instruction of his personal coach and trainer former Zimbabwe left-back and Orlando Pirates player, South African soccer legend Innocent Chikoya who is mentoring him.
