By TellZim Reporter
CHIPINGE – Rusitu Golden Stars were crowned the 2024 Mlilo Trophy champions and walked away with a trophy, soccer balls, medals and US$200 at a heavily subscribed tournament, held at Rusitu Ngorima Grounds in Murekani Village, which saw people from all walks of life and age groups attending.
On second position was Rusitu Pirates which walked away with a trophy, soccer balls, medals and US$150 whilst Ngorima FC came third and walked away with a trophy, medals, soccer ball and US$100.
Fourth placed Chimanimani Bullets got a consolation price of US$50, soccer ball and medals for the players.
The tournament which was initiated in 2005 is sponsored by businessman Innocent Mlilo and his wife Lydia Mlilo.
Innocent told TellZim News that the whole idea behind the tournament especially the 2024 edition was to try and fight societal ills amongst youths like drug abuse.
He said the tournaments give youths something to do while those who participate get something and that would deter them from engaging in drug abuse as well as other activities which are mainly done by people who are unoccupied.
“The tournament was initiated in 2005 and has been targeting youths. Last year (2023) the tournament targeted schools and this year’s edition was themed against drug and substance abuse and was for local teams,” he said
He went on to say he was passionate about sport and said through his tournaments, some players will have a chance to showcase their talent and could end up playing for bigger teams.
He said he recently donated a soccer kit and soccer balls to Eastern Region Division 1 side Rusitu Tigers, a team which hails from Chipinge.
“I am passionate about soccer, I recently donated some footballs and a soccer kit to Rusitu Tigers FC which plays in the ZIFA eastern region. Through these tournament I hope some young talents will be identified and play for bigger teams like Rusitu Tigers or others that play in the Premier Soccer League (PSL),” he said.
The Mlilos own a sports shop, grocery and hardware in Chipinge and Innocent is current ZIFA Manicaland fixturing secretary.
