By Shevonne Eda Mlauzi

“Work hard, train hard, aim high with each day and also discipline is an integral part of the beautiful game.”-Marvelous Nakamba

Aston Villa midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has spoken about what he loved at the inaugural edition of the under 17 invitational tournament and his wish of remaining committed in supporting the growth of grassroots soccer.

Nakamba’s story serves as an inspiration to many young people who will care to read. His love for football starts at his rural home in Dinde, Hwange. In 2010 at the age of 16 he made his senior debut for local team Bantu Rovers and later moved to play for teams like French side Nancy, Vitesse and Club Brugge before joining Aston Villa.

Shevonne Mlauzi {SM} got a chance to interview Marvelous Nakamba {MN} on the sidelines of the tournament in Bulawayo.

{S.M}: What are your thoughts about the tournament, seeing most of the things were organised while you were?

{MN}: This is impressive, I love how it all turned out. I appreciate the work done by the board, staff and all the volunteers the contributions made make me confident of hosting this annually.

{SM}: What did you love about this inaugural edition?

{MN}: The positive attitude from the participating teams was clear they prepared for it and the support we got from the people of Zimbabwe was world class, it made me realise that such competitions should be held regularly.

{SM}: What are your hopes about the tournament as we look into the future?

{MN}: Growth and for us to be able to host it in different parts of the country annually. I also wish to see more teams take part and have the tournament run for 3 days. I will be a happy man if we are able to add under 13’s and 15’s to the event as we hope to fully develop grassroots soccer development in Zimbabwe.

{SM}: What advise can you give to young people who want to take soccer as a career?

{MN}: Work hard, train hard and aim high with each day and also discipline is an integral part of the beautiful game. If you have this in mind it’s possible to achieve. I never thought I will be here today while I was playing soccer using a ball made of plastics and rags back in my home village Dinde but all those ingredients helped me.