Young Achievement Sports for Development (YASD) is set to kickstart preparations for the 2024 Homeless World Cup with countrywide selection tournaments beginning next month as they seek to choose teams to fly the country’s flag at the event.
The 19th edition of the global street football tournament is scheduled for September 21-28 at Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea.
Next month will see the first selection event on March 23 at Hatcliffe 1 Shops in Harare before moving to other towns and cities.
The organisation, which uses the power of sport to transform the lives of marginalized young people, announced the imminent selection events in a statement.
“Young Achievement Sports for Development is thrilled to announce the commencement of selection tournaments for the 2024 Homeless World Cup. The prestigious tournament will be hosted in South Korea from 21-28 September 2024,” read the statement.
“Zimbabwe, a country with a rich footballing history, has participated in the Homeless World Cup for the past 10 editions. YASD has harnessed the power of football to transform the lives of marginalized and socially excluded individuals. Through the 2024 Homeless World Cup tournament, YASD aims to provide a platform where young people showcase their talents and empower themselves.
“The theme for the Zimbabwe team in the 2024 Homeless World Cup is "A Reason to Dream." This theme encapsulates the aspirations and dreams of the players, highlighting the importance of hope and ambition in overcoming adversity. YASD firmly believes that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to dream and achieve greatness.
“The selection process for the Zimbabwe team will take place in at least five provinces across the country. This wide-reaching approach ensures that talented individuals from various regions have the chance to participate. YASD is committed to promoting gender equality and empowerment, and as such, the team will consist of both boys and girls,” added the statement.
YASD is targeting aspiring footballers, who have faced social exclusion or marginalisation to participate in the selection tournaments.
"We are excited to embark on this journey towards the 2024 Homeless World Cup. Football has the power to bring people together, inspire change, and provide a platform for individuals to shine. Through this tournament, we want to give our players a reason to dream and show the world what they are capable of," YASD project director Petros Chatiza said.
YASD took the opportunity to extend its gratitude to partners and supporters who have supported the Homeless World Cup team over the years while also calling on other corporations to support this initiative.