In the heart of Gwanda in Matabeleland South Province, a new beacon of hope has emerged, on the football pitch. Born from a passionate vision in February 2024 and officially launched on April 7 the same year, Gwanda Pirates Football Club is more than just a team, it is a movement.
This ambitious Central Region Division One outfit has set its sights high, not only on conquering the league and potentially joining the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) next year, but also on tackling a deep-seated societal challenge, drug abuse, within the Gwanda community.
The genesis of Gwanda Pirates lies in the collective concern of local community leaders and football enthusiasts, who witnessed the devastating impact of drug abuse on the youth. They envisioned a platform that could channel youthful energy positively, offering an alternative path through the unifying power of sport. The name itself, "Pirates," is no coincidence. The founders were deliberate in drawing inspiration from the legendary Orlando Pirates Football Club of South Africa.
In an interview with The Sports Hub, Gwanda Pirates chairman Guqukani Mpofu said the club was a community team, which was formed in in a bid to promote talent and fight against drug abuse.
The club's mission extends far beyond football. There is a commitment to community upliftment, with a particular focus on combating the scourge of drug abuse. The team regularly engages in community outreach programmes, partnering with local schools and organisations to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use. Players often share their personal stories and emphasise the importance of making healthy choices, using their platform to inspire and guide vulnerable youth towards a brighter future.
“We wanted to help promote talent in Gwanda and around the region and fight the rising drug abuse among the youths by keeping them active in sport and giving them something to watch during the weekends," Mpofu said. "You can see that with the turnout of supporters at our matches. Gwanda Pirates do not have sponsorship at the moment, though we have had few companies contributing to the team monthly. It is in our prayers that one day we wake up to a call from a well-wisher to hold hands with us and help raise this project high. As we all know this Division 1 league, we are playing in now, has a lot of challenges compared to Division 2.”
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He added that their long-term goals are to nurture the boys who can go to play for bigger clubs and to bring the Premier League to Matabeleland South.
As it stands, Gwanda Pirates sit on second place with 6 points and four goals while Sheasham FC are at the top of the table with six points and four goals from two games.
In their past two games, Gwanda Pirates have embodied the tenacity and flair associated with their namesake. The players, a mix of local talent and promising young stars, understand the dual responsibility they carry – to perform on the pitch and to serve as positive role models for the younger generation in Gwanda.
The ambition of Gwanda Pirates is tangible. Their sights are firmly set on promotion to the PSL. The players train with dedication, fuelled by the dream of competing at the highest level of Zimbabwean football. The coaching staff, a blend of experienced former players and passionate local mentors, are crafting a winning mentality to the players. They understand that success on the field will not only bring glory to the club but also amplify their message of hope and resilience to a wider audience.
Former Highlander (Bosso) midfielder Johannes Ngodzo, who was appointed new Gwanda Pirates head coach in February this year said he was taking the team one step at a time to make sure they connect with his ideas as the new coach.
“This is a new team and we have only played two games, so the team is still gaining confidence step by step. Some players are yet to get their debut in the Division 1 football. So, there is a lot to do,” Ngodzo told The SportsHub.
Thabisani Thebe, a Gwanda Pirates supporter who never misses their games said the club is not just a football team, but it is a community team which is not owned by an individual and that alone shows how the club is a unifying factor in Gwanda.
“I love the culture of our team and supporters, we are connected with the players we see everyday and some grew up in Gwanda. This is a community football team which we hope one day will play in the PSL,” Thebe said.
Some clubs who have been promoted to Psl have struggled due to financial constraints. Such teams like Chegutu Pirates and currently Kwekwe United are facing problems and they were summoned to a disciplinary hearing after failing to fulfil their fixture against Herentals.
For Gwanda Pirates, the journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging. The Division One league is a fiercely competitive environment, and the step up to the PSL requires significant resources and unwavering commitment. However, the spirit and determination that underpin Gwanda Pirates suggest they are ready to face these challenges head-on.
They are not just playing for themselves; they are playing for their community, for a future free from the grip of drug abuse, and for the chance to etch their name in the annals of the game.
