THE Heart Group president Walter Magaya, the official sponsors of The Heart Women Soccer League has revealed huge plans for women's football, but said that can only happen if the administrators uphold principles of good governance so as to attract more sponsorship.
Magaya, speaking during the Heart Women Soccer League leadership and administration workshop at his Yadah Hotel in Waterfalls in the capital, said his initial $320 000 sponsorship is just a drop in the ocean compared to what he intends to do next season.
"The focus is not to lift the brand of The Heart League, but to bring a lot of sponsors to the women's football league. Our idea is to create for other companies to come and express themselves to The Heart League. We want to show the world that we can do it and they're welcome to join us," said Magaya.
"With proper administration, Women's football can make money. So, our clarion call to the executive is that please make it simple for us, we want order in the league. We are already looking into next season to see how we become better, bigger and smarter.
“All that has to be made easy by how well you handle this sponsorship.”
Magaya added that his heart is in the right place with The Heart Women Soccer League. The sponsor unveiled four sets of playing kits to all the 16 teams.
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At least 480 people are set to be accommodated at the 1800-capacity state-of-the-art hotel including all the 16 teams for the inaugural The Heart League Women Soccer League Tournament scheduled for September 18 to 21. The games will be played at The Heart Stadium and B Arena.
The knock-out tournament, sponsored to the tune of $45 000, will see the winner pocket $10 000, runner-up $5 000, while number three and four get $3 000 and $2 500 respectively. Teams knocked out in the quarterfinals will receive $2 000 each while those eliminated in the first round go home with $1 500 each.
The player of the tournament will receive $1 500, top goal-scorer, goalkeeper of the tournament and coach of the tournament and fairplay award for the most disciplined team are set to get $1 000 each.
There is also a $500 reward for the top referee of the tournament.
The Heart Women Soccer League chairperson Theresa Maguraushe said:
"I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to The Heart Group for their generous support and partnership. Their contribution has been instrumental in empowering our league to grow, develop, and thrive. Their belief in our vision and commitment to women's soccer is truly inspiring," she said.
"Together, we are creating a platform for women to shine, to lead, and to inspire. The sponsorship is more than just a financial investment — it's a vote of confidence to our mission. We will guard this sponsorship jealously."
Veteran sports administrator Vincent Chaonza, who is also one of Magaya's partners, donated two electronic substitution boards to the The Women Soccer League through his Open Group company.