Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Sports Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
FC Platinum head coach Joel Luphahla has praised The Next Generation U17 Tournament held at Mandava Stadium over the weekend, describing it as a valuable platform for identifying and nurturing young football talent.
The platinum miners’ Under-17 side emerged champions after an impressive run, underlining the club’s growing emphasis on youth development as a cornerstone of its long-term success.
Luphahla said the tournament highlighted the importance of investing in junior football, particularly at Under-17 level, which he believes is crucial for building a sustainable future for the club.
“I was very happy with the talent on display, especially from teams in the Midlands such as Shesham and the Zvishavane select. These kinds of tournaments give us a clear picture of what is coming through,” said Luphahla.
He stressed that FC Platinum’s development structures are designed to produce homegrown players capable of stepping up to the first team, adding that the junior side is not separate from the senior squad but an essential feeder.
“Our goal is to develop our own players and promote them to the first team. What we do at development level directly benefits the senior side,” he said.
Luphahla was particularly impressed by the character and resilience shown by the young players, noting that they played as many as five matches in a single day.
“The boys were strong, confident and well coached. To play five games in one day and still show that level of quality says a lot about their mentality and preparation,” he said.
He also observed that the players clearly enjoyed the competition, showing excitement and motivation throughout the tournament, especially with the knowledge that the head coach was watching from the stands.
“The enjoyment was there, and that’s important at this age. They knew they were being watched, and they responded positively,” Luphahla added.
The successful hosting of the tournament at Mandava Stadium further reinforced FC Platinum’s commitment to grassroots football, with the club hopeful that more youth competitions will continue to unearth talent capable of shaping Zimbabwean football in the years to come.
With FC Platinum’s Under-17 side lifting the trophy, the tournament not only showcased emerging talent but also reaffirmed the club’s commitment to youth development as a pathway to senior football.
Luphahla believes continued investment in such platforms will strengthen FC Platinum’s future while contributing positively to the growth of the game in the Midlands and beyond.
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