Thomson Mpinganjira and William Mpinganjira, presidents of Airtel Top 8 Cup finalists Mighty Wanderers and Ekhaya FC respectively, have donated sports equipment worth MK30 million to Play Soccer Academy, in a gesture aimed at supporting grassroots football development in the country.
The handover, facilitated by the two club presidents, formed part of the celebrations surrounding the historic Airtel Top 8 Cup final meeting between Ekhaya FC and Mighty Wanderers FC.
Representatives from both clubs were on hand to present the donation. Ekhaya FC was represented by team official Enos Chatama alongside a selection of players, while Mighty Wanderers was represented by team manager Sherry Msuku and a group of selected players.
Speaking after the handover, Mighty Wanderers captain Feliz Zulu said the donation was made with the aim of inspiring young players who dream of professional football careers.
“We are thankful to the presidents of the two teams for making the decision. I just wanted to urge these young players to train with these resources, work hard so that they represent big teams in the near future,” Zulu said.
Ekhaya FC captain Clever Mkungula echoed similar sentiments, describing the donation as a significant boost for young footballers coming through the ranks.
“For football development, grassroots football is always important. This donation, we believe, will motivate these players. The future of our football is in their hands, and the equipment will help them to master things while they are still young,” he said.
Play Soccer Academy Chief Executive Officer, Pamera Chabwera, praised Dr Thomson Mpinganjira and Mr William Mpinganjira for their generosity, noting that the equipment would go a long way in improving training standards and shaping the futures of the academy’s young players.
“Most of these kids are underprivileged, and giving them the opportunity to play football gives them a hope to become footballers who can compete both locally and internationally. So, we extend our gratitude to Dr Thomson Mpinganjira and Mr William Mpinganjira for the support,” Chabwera said.
The MK30 million donation, intended for use across Play Soccer Academy’s four teams, includes 80 pairs of football boots, 40 footballs, 160 training bibs, 400 training cones, ball pumps, and 4 sets of jerseys.
In addition to the equipment, Dr Thomson Mpinganjira purchased 100 tickets for the young players, giving them the opportunity to attend and watch the Airtel Top 8 Cup final in person.
Mighty Wanderers and Ekhaya FC are set to clash in the Airtel Top 8 Cup final on Sunday at Bingu National Stadium, a match that has already been marked by this show of goodwill toward the country’s football grassroots structures ahead of kickoff.
