ZSports Academy officially launched in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, with plans to develop young football talent and promote sports development in the region. The academy is affiliated with a sister academy in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, South Africa.
Speaking to Fanzone, ZSports founder Zenzo Ndlovu revealed the academy’s origins stem from Soccerforlife, a Christian outreach program he started in 2002. “Due to the number of kids coming, we decided to separate the two, and that’s when ZSport was formed in the United States,” Ndlovu said.
Ndlovu, a former Highlanders junior player, added that opportunities in South Africa led to the establishment of the KwaMhlanga academy, and persistent requests from Madina Ndlovu and ZIFA vice president Kennedy Ndebele prompted the Bulawayo launch.
“We set a date, 7 February 2026, and here we are. We have 50 kids registered for trials, but more are coming,” Ndlovu said.
Technical Director Lindiwe ‘Mabhonzo’ Ncube emphasized the program’s focus on keeping kids off the streets and teaching discipline through sport. “It’s not just about the talented ones; it’s about girls and boys. We want to encourage girls to come forward,” Ncube said, highlighting opportunities for scholarships, as Ndlovu (Founder) is a product of one.
Ammelia Muleso, a former Royal and Mighty Warrior, will head the Zimbabwe academy, working alongside Ndlovu and Ncube.
