As a mother, there is an indescribable joy in watching your child pursue their passion. For me, that passion is soccer. My son has been training since he was just six years old, and from the moment he kicked his first ball, I knew I was destined to be his biggest supporter. I have cheered him on through every practice, every game, and every triumph.
Yet, as we navigate the world of academy soccer in Zimbabwe, my heart grows heavy with concern for the future of not just my son, but all aspiring soccer stars in our nation. The love for soccer runs deep in Zimbabwe.
It is more than just a game; it is a way of life, a source of pride, and a beacon of hope for many young athletes.
However, the reality of professional soccer here is marred by corruption and exploitation.
The leaders of some so-called soccer academies, who are meant to nurture and develop our children’s talents, often seem more focused on their own financial gain than the welfare of the young players they are supposed to support.
Every parent dreams of seeing their child excel, but the path to success is riddled with obstacles.
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Many academy leaders ask parents to pay exorbitant fees for trips and training, only to pocket most of the money.
The children, who should be the focus of these programmes, often receive little in return. It is heart-breaking to see young athletes return from trips unaccompanied or to witness them being denied the opportunities they so desperately deserve.
The promise of soccer as a vehicle for change and success slowly fades into a cruel joke.
When I speak out against these injustices, I find myself in a precarious position.
Challenging the status quo is not only met with resistance but can lead to victimization.
I have heard stories of parents who dared to question the system only to have their children face repercussions. I am both a victim and survivor of this rather sad reality. It’s a chilling reality that silences many of us.
The fear of retribution looms large, and the very act of advocating for our children can feel like a betrayal.
Today however, I feel like the silence ought to be broken, after all the lives of our young men are at stake. Something needs to give!
The coaches, who should be mentors and role models, sometimes lack the necessary training in child psychology.
Instead of fostering a positive environment, some resort to verbal abuse, hence dire psychological and emotional health issues. The impact of such behaviour is profound and lasting.
Children who are meant to thrive in a supportive atmosphere often leave feeling diminished and defeated. The psychological scars can overshadow their love for the game, turning a passion into a source of anxiety.
As a mother, it pains me to witness the toll this takes on my son and his peers. They are not just players; they are children with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a safe and nurturing environment.
Soccer should be a space where they can learn, grow, and express themselves freely, not a battleground where their self-worth is constantly challenged.
Above all, they are children. The world governing body International Federation of Association Football has very strict guidelines on safeguarding, especially for young players and when these are violated, the repercussions for the offending parties are supposed to hit hard.
Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful. I believe in the resilience of our young athletes and their ability to rise above the obstacles they face.
I see the fire in my son’s eyes when he plays, and it reminds me of the potential that exists within each child.
They are the future of soccer in Zimbabwe, and it is our responsibility as parents and supporters to advocate for them.
We must come together as a community to demand accountability and transparency from those who run soccer academies, especially those who bask in their former glory as national soccer players.
It is time to hold them responsible for their actions and to ensure that our children are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
We need to create an environment where young athletes can thrive, not just survive.
To the aspiring soccer stars, I want to say this: your dreams are valid. Do not let the corruption and negativity around you extinguish your passion.
Keep pushing, keep training, and keep believing in yourselves.
You are capable of achieving greatness, and there are those of us who will continue to fight for your rights and well-being.
As fans of soccer, we must also raise our voices. Let us support initiatives that promote integrity and fairness in the sport.
Let us celebrate those who are doing it right and hold accountable those who are not.
Together, we can transform the landscape of soccer in Zimbabwe, ensuring that it becomes a place where talent is nurtured, and dreams are realised.
The journey of a young athlete in Zimbabwe is fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with hope and determination.
As a mother, I will continue to stand by my son and advocate for all children who dare to dream. I will advocate for their rights and will do whatever I can to support their rights and dignity being respected.
We must unite to create a better future for soccer in our nation, one where every child can play, learn, and grow in a safe and supportive environment.
Let us be the change we wish to see, for the love of the game and for the dreams of our children. Until then, we are blessed to be a blessing (#B2BAB).
We were here, becoming better, making our mark, and leaving our footprint as we make the world a better place!
- Chirenje writes in her capacity as a citizen of Zimbabwe. Follow her on social media for more Lifezone with Grace conversations on Twitter: @graceruvimbo; Facebook: Grace Ruvimbo Chirenje; Instagram: @graceruvimbo