NRSL unveil US20k Super-8 tourney

Tadious Manyepo

The Northern Region Soccer League has launched a US$20 000 super-eight tournament which is scheduled to start in the coming months.

Information technology concern Axis Solutions will bankroll the fiesta which will be contested for by the eight teams on top of the log by mid-season in the upcoming campaign.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the sponsorship package in Harare on Wednesday, Axis Solutions chief executive Brian Mukudzavhu said his company chose to work with the NRSL because they are organised.

“We could have entered a partnership with anyone but we have elected to go to bed with the Northern Region Soccer League because they are very much organised,” said Mukudzavhu.

“This sponsorship package is aimed at motivating the teams and this is also our small way of contributing to the growth of football in the country.

“The tournament will be sponsored to the tune of US$20 000 plus some add ons.There will be branded playing kits for the teams with the player of the tournament set to walk away US$500 richer. The Golden Boot winner gets US$300, same as the best goalkeeper and the coach.”

Being a technological company, the company has also pledged automated pre-season health-check packages for the players and officials.

NRSL chairman Martin Kweza said the tournament will enhance competition in the region.

“We are known as one of the most competitive leagues in the country and this tournament will enhance that,” said Kweza.

“What we all want to see at the end of the day is a very competitive league, with competitive players.

“If you look at it, we will be witnessing stiff competition as teams know what they need to do to play this tournament.

“We would like to thank the sponsors for their support of our initiatives. We approached them two years ago and after some lengthy negotiations, they have decided to partner us. We thank them for that and we also promise to give them value for their brand.”

Lower division football was last played in the country in December 2022 and Cranborne Bullets were promoted to the Premier Soccer League from NRSL.

Different teams are tipped for promotion in the upcoming campaign with Simba Bhora, Chegutu Pirates, Golden Eagles, Black Mambas and Commando Bullets expected to vie for the top honours.