AS the curtains came down on the Heart Women Soccer League season over the weekend, title sponsor, Walter Magaya, is plotting a bigger and better funded championship next year.
Halfway through the season, Magaya injected US$360 000 into the league, a move that breathed new life into the competition.
Magaya looks back at the competition with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
“Our investment in the Heart Women Soccer League has been a game-changer,” he said.
“We've seen the league grow in leaps and bounds and the quality of football has improved significantly.”
But Magaya is not resting on his laurels. As he looks into the future, he has big plans for the league. Magaya remains committed to his vision despite mudslinging inspired by Zifa elections. The criticism has only strengthened his resolve, and he intends to come back even stronger.
“Next season, we're looking to more than triple our sponsorship,” he revealed.
“We want to take the league to the next level, and we're committed to investing in the growth and development of women's football in the country.”
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Magaya also plans to invite more partners on board, recognising the importance of collaboration in achieving his vision.
“We can't do it alone,” he said.
“We need partners who share our passion for women's football and our commitment to empowering women through sport.”
The future of women's football in the country looks bright and is proud to be a part of it, he said.
“We're not just investing in a league. We are investing in the empowerment of women and that's something to be proud of.”
Herentals Queens were crowned champions on Saturday after beating relegated Hope Academy 7-0 at Luveve Stadium.
Permanent secretary in the Sports Ministry Nicholas Moyo presided over the coronation ceremony, handing out medals and the champions trophy to Herentals Queens.
Magaya also sponsored the Heart Women Soccer League Tournament, which came with a prize purse of over US$50 000. The tournament was a success, showcasing the best of women's football in the country.
Each of the 16 participating teams received a financial injection based on their performance in the tournament.
The eight teams eliminated in the first round received US$1 500 each, while the quarterfinalists (four teams) received US$2 000 each. The team that finished fourth got US$2 500 and the third-placed team took home US$3 000. The inaugural champions, Chapungu Queens, received US$10 000, while the runners-up, Black Mambas Queens US$5,000 richer.
