Maebane Soccer Academy were crowned champions of the Tsanwani Raymond Raduvha Foundation Top-8 Soccer tournament when they defeated Muduluni Young Chiefs 2-1 in the final match at Madabani on Sunday.

During the prize-giving ceremony, Mr Sam Maduwa, the managing director of the sponsors, Top T, announced that his company would continue to sponsor the rural soccer tournament next season, with an increase in the sponsorship amount. “We are part of this community, and we are doing this to support local people,” he added.

He commended the committee for their excellent management of the sport and encouraged community members to keep producing talented young players.

The secretary of the Tsanwani Raymond Raduvha Foundation, Mr Tsanwani Raduvha, urged businesspeople to become involved in promoting local activities. He emphasised the importance of education and stressed that sportspeople must not neglect their studies. “You can be a star today and be written off the following day. Education will never forsake you, and you can rely on it,” he added.

The top-goal-scorer trophy was awarded to Dakalo Masha of Maebane Soccer Academy, while the prize for the best goalkeeper went to Loyiti Awodwa of Barcelona. The player-of-the-tournament award went to Mulalo Kharivha of Maebane Soccer Academy.