By Rangarirai Shanyurai
Masvingo United FC popularly known as Una Una recently vowed to reclaim its spot in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) during a fundraising dinner held at Flamboyant Hotel on April 12.
The team’s Chief Executive Officer, Phillip Shumba said Masvingo United belonged in the top-tier league and promised to work tirelessly to meet the necessary requirements for promotion this season.
“We are in our 13th year in the lower divisions, which is not where the team belongs. The team deserves to be in the premiership, and our mantra for this year is ‘This is our year to redeem lost glory,” said Shumba.
Shumba emphasized the team’s potential, citing its massive following and ability to attract large crowds claiming that in terms of support the team was ranked fourth nationally.
“In terms of crowd pulling, Masvingo United FC is rated as the fourth best-supported club in the country and that alone shows the potential we have,” he said.
He went on to highlight the benefits of the team’s return to PSL which he said was beyond the football sport but also included employment opportunities and boosting local businesses.
“We want to see crowds return to Mucheke Stadium to witness thrilling matches between Masvingo United and Dynamos Football Club. This will not only benefit the team but also local lodges, hotels, and businesses for football is not just a sport but also a business that benefits a number of stakeholders.
Shumba added that the club aimed to provide opportunities for young players to earn a living through football, with 35 talented individuals currently part of the team and urged stakeholders at the event to support the team.
“The advantages are derived especially in terms of employment opportunities. That’s why we have 35 young players in the club. To everyone invited, we encourage you to contribute to the support and development of these young players,”
Masvingo United FC Spokesperson Owen Mafa assured fans that the team was back on track and invited women to join the committee.
“I want to assure our fans that the team is back and to women who are interested to join Masvingo United you are free to come and be part of us. We are happy that we managed to hold a successful fundraising dinner and we are pleased with the turnout,” said Mafa.
The team’s executive committee includes notable figures such as Club Patron Hon Ezra Chadzamira, Club President Commissioner Stanely Kondongwe, and Chairperson Godwin Tavaruva, among others.
Masvingo United FC has a rich history, having gained promotion to the PSL in 2010 under Tanda Tavaruva’s tenure. The team won several trophies, including the ZIFA Unit Cup and Independence Trophy twice, OK Woza Bhora and even qualified for the Confederation Cup.
The club produced talented players like Ovid Karuru, Costa Nhamoinesu and Pardon Chinungwa, who played the Zimbabwe National Team.
With renewed determination and commitment, Masvingo United FC is poised to reclaim its spot in the PSL and bring glory back to the team and its fans.
Several business people who were present pledged to work with the team and prominent business person and football enthusiast Allan Sibanda pledged US$2000.
