The Sunday News
Sports Reporter
THE Habane community in Eaigodini will today witness the launch of a new football club affiliated to Zifa Matabeleland South Province Division Two league.
Bankrolled by the United Kingdom based duo of Thembani ‘Yena’ Mpofu and Franklin Sibanda, Habane Pirates Football Club takes its bow in the third tier of Zimbabwean football when the league kicks off next weekend but will be introduced to the community today.
The event is expected to be graced by Sport and Recreation Commission District Sports Co-ordinator, Busani Ncube who is the guest of honour and will be held at the club’s homeground, Mpelela Stadium in the township.
Speaking to Sunday Sport in Habane yesterday, team manager Nkosi Nkala the club decided to officially launch its Division Two campaign and inteoduce the club to the community in an effort to develop a sense of ownership within the Habane community.
Nkala said Pirates are determined to win promotion to Division One football this season with their ultimate goal being a spot in the Premiership.
“Ours is a community based team which is why decided to have this event. We only want to spend a season in Division Two so next season we hope to join the big boys in Division One,” Nkala said.
The club’s sponsors have also put their weight behind the club’s ambitions and have committed to continue sponsoring the team.
“I grew up here (Habane) so for me there is no question about my committment to Habane Pirates. I would like to the see the team playing in Division One next season,” Mpofu said.
His co-sponsor at Habane Pirates, Sibanda also confirmed that he is fully behind the club’s ambitions.
Pirates are coached by Entumbane native Archford ‘Mafisto’ Hlazo while Shepard Zingwena who doubles as organising secretary is the assistant coach. The club is led by Khetsha Ndlovu while local businessman Bigboy Ngwenya is his deputy. The secretary general is Tobias Ngwenya deputised by Foster Ndudzo. The treasurer is Bhekithemba Khumalo while Mlamuleli Moyo and Fiso Moyo are the committe members.
