Branton Matondo
Redcliff based Redcliff United football club are appealing for funding as they seek to participate in the Ruvimbo Funeral Central Region Soccer League division 2 this year.
With a rich football history, the former “little London” nurtured talents like Jimmy Mbewe, Clarkson Dzimbiri, Donald Madzinga, goalkeeper Chrispen Ben and James Bonomali Rutendo, Redcliff football followers continue to ponder and remember the old golden days.
Rutendo stadium in Redcliff popularly known as ‘MuChigomba’ does not portray its rich history as its state continues to degrade beyond sporting recognition and is now a shadow of its former self.
Redcliff United, a local team that last participated in the division 2 league in 2019 has lamented on the absence of sponsorship for them to participate again.
Speaking to TellZim News, Redcliff United patron Luwesi Mulanzi said the club which is the only hope to resuscitate Redcliff football is currently under threat.
“There is a lot of talent here in Rutendo but lack of sponsorship is hindering our progress. We last participated in division 2 during the 2019 season as Redcliff United but since then we have been dormant,” said Mulanzi.
As of now Redcliff United has confirmed a single well wisher who paid half of the affiliation fee for the 2023 season.
Other than that, nothing has been sponsored yet.
“We have paid half of 2023 season affiliation fee so far which in total is US$ 200. We need to pay the balance amounting to US$ 215. We wish to play in Midlands Province Division 2 this 2023 season. Donations will indeed help us to leap forward,” added Mulanzi.
Redcliff United is also looking for sponsorship in form of football balls, referee commissions during matches and transport for away games.
Redcliff and Rutendo last witnessed division 1 football in 2010 when FC Glow of Glow Petroleum graced the league.
The team was sponsored by business man Aaron Chinhara.
Due to the absence of football in the remote town of Redcliff, once promising youths have turned to drug abuse.
The town is only left with memories of Zisco Steel FC once sponsored by now defunct steel manufacturing giant Zisco Steel.
Well wishers willing to assist Redcliff United can call or send a WhatsApp message on +263 77 658 9953.
