THE Academy of Sports Excellence (ASE) and Young Achievement Sports for Development (YASD) hosted an inaugural schools' sports tournament meant to tackle drug and substance abuse and gender-based violence in Domboshava last week.
The tournament was held at Munyawiri High School and brought together eight competitive boys’ and girls’ teams from Kachuta Primary, Munyawiri Primary, Govera Secondary and Munyawiri Secondary.
The tournament was more than just a football competition, as it served as a powerful demonstration of the sport’s role in fostering teamwork, pride and social dialogue.
Founded by Adam Dakwa and Tawanda Karasa, ASE is a Zimbabwe-based initiative with a vision to transform Africa’s brightest young football talent into world-class athletes and ethical leaders. It has partnered with YASD to orchestrate the tournament.
The event received support from the British embassy and ASE’s development partner, YASD, signalling a robust commitment to youth empowerment at the grassroots level.
Adding star power and inspiration, legendary former Liverpool and Zimbabwe goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar donated football kits, equipping the young players with both gear and a dose of sporting legend motivation.
ASE framed the tournament’s deeper purpose. “This tournament is about far more than football — it is about igniting hope, tackling drug and substance abuse, and fighting against GBV in less privileged communities. Through sport, we are shaping leaders, building character, and creating opportunities that can change the course of a young person’s life," they stated.
The timing was particularly significant, aligning with the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
The tournament provided a crucial platform, bringing together local leaders, school teachers, and the area councillor to discuss and strategise on minimising these social ills within the community.
Further bolstering the initiative, the British embassy donated football kits to all four participating schools within the Munyawiri community.
This tangible support has already sparked increased interest, attracting more teenagers to the ongoing youth projects run by YASD and ASE.
The event drew an impressive crowd, with over 200 youths attending not only the matches but also the accompanying educational workshop.
The tournament is a vivid chapter in YASD’s longstanding archival record of harnessing sport for development. For years, YASD has been instrumental in using football and other sports as engagement tools to address critical issues facing Zimbabwean youth.
This tournament perfectly encapsulates that mission, proving that a football match can be a catalyst for education, dialogue, and hope.
Organisers extended heartfelt gratitude to Truckeaze International for sponsoring the event, and to RemoteEaze, YASD, the British embassy and Bruce Grobbelaar for their unwavering partnership.
“This tournament is about far more than football — it is about igniting hope, unlocking potential, and giving young people the courage to dream boldly. Through sport, we are shaping leaders, building character, and creating opportunities that can change the course of a young person’s life. I am deeply grateful to Truckeaze International for sponsoring this event, and to RemoteEaze, YASD, the British Embassy, and Bruce Grobbelaar for standing with us as partners in this mission,” Dakwa said.
As the final whistle blew on Saturday, it was clear the real victory was not just on the scoreboard, but in the strengthened resolve of a community using sport to build a brighter, healthier future for its youth.