DOMESTIC football clubs have been urged to follow Simba Bhora’s lead in supporting players and former stars facing life-altering setbacks, especially those injured while serving their teams.
The call comes after Simba Bhora hosted a commemorative match on Saturday against promoted side Agama FC at Wadzanayi Stadium to honour the memory of former midfielder Barnabas Mushunje. Mushunje tragically died in a car accident in 2022 while returning to Shamva after attending a funeral in Manicaland.
In a match defined more by spirit than scoreline, Blessing Moyo netted the only goal, securing the inaugural trophy for Simba Bhora. All proceeds were donated to Mushunje’s widow, Nicole, and their two sons, aged four and eight, with the club also committing to cover their primary school fees.
The gesture has sparked a broader conversation about the precarious nature of professional football in the domestic league, where players often lament being discarded by clubs the moment they suffer career-ending injuries — injuries sustained while representing the badge.
Simba Bhora head coach Mandla Mpofu, who shared a personal bond with Mushunje, was visibly moved.
"I want to thank Simba Bhora through its president Simba Ndoro. He has sent a very good message to other clubs," he said.
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"This is a first. It’s been four years since Barnabas left us, but I saw tears from his former teammates when the wife and the kids joined us. It was very emotional."
Mpofu, who coached Mushunje at the U-20 national level, added that the significance of the event extends into the future.
"These kids will never forget this. They will see the recordings when they grow up and always remember what the club did for their father."
Agama coach Paul Chimalizeni, part of Simba Bhora’s technical staff when Mushunje passed on, applauded the club’s integrity.
"I would love to see Simba Bhora doing this game every year. President Simba Ndoro promised he would support Barna’s family, and I’m glad he is honouring his pledge," Chimalizeni said.
"This is something other clubs can emulate, especially helping players who suffer injuries while on duty."
On Sunday, Simba Bhora vice-president Tonderai Ndoro handed over the match proceeds to the Mushunje family at the club’s offices in Borrowdale, sending a clear message to the domestic football fraternity: in a sport often obsessed with points and trophies, how a club treats its own can be its greatest legacy.