FOOTBALL was the vehicle, but the message went far deeper than the final score.
Shingirirayi Youth Ministry Trust's Chinhoyi/Murombedzi Under-17 Tournament took place on 15 August 2026 at Murombedzi Growth Point Public Grounds, bringing together 136 children from seven villages in a day of football, community and spiritual formation that programmes coordinator Svinurai Chafuka described as a resounding success.
Played under the theme "Respecting Human Dignity Through Sports and Community Drug Free", the tournament delivered on every level, with young players from across the Murombedzi area competing from 09:00 to 17:00 in what organisers said was a well-organised and spirited day of competition.
4 Stars of Murombedzi Growth Point were crowned champions, lifting the trophy after emerging as the best side across the day's fixtures. Chikaka FC of Chikaka Village finished as runners-up in second place, while 5 Miles claimed the third-place prize to complete the podium.
Individual awards recognised the outstanding performers of the tournament. Tavonga of Nyanhi Village was named defender of the tournament, while Mhangwa, also of Nyanhi Village, claimed the goalkeeper of the tournament award. Blessing of 5 Miles was named player of the tournament and Takunda of Murombedzi Growth Point finished as top goal scorer. Richard of Chikaka Village received the most disciplined player award, a recognition that reflected the values at the heart of the day's activities.
Beyond the results, Shingirirayi Youth Ministry Trust used the platform to deliver a message of faith, peer apostolate and community belonging to the young participants. "We gave them a message for them to know God, love him and serve him through peer to peer and family apostolate through Shingirirayi Youth Ministry Trust activities," Chafuka said.
