Prophet Magaya plans bigger and better Heart Women Soccer League

As the curtains fell on the Heart Women Soccer League season this past weekend, title sponsor Walter Magaya has set his sights on an even bigger and better competition for next year. The businessman, who injected a significant US$360,000 midway through the season, has expressed his pride in the league's growth and is already making plans for the future.

Magaya, who has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the league, is enthusiastic about the progress made so far. "Our investment in the Heart Women Soccer League has been a game-changer," Magaya said. "We've seen the league grow in leaps and bounds, and the quality of football has improved significantly."

The sponsorship boost came at a crucial moment during the season, infusing the league with much-needed funds that helped to improve the competition and the standard of play. However, Magaya is not one to rest on his laurels. With an eye on next season, he has ambitious plans to further elevate the league.

"Next season, we're looking to more than triple our sponsorship," Magaya revealed. "We want to take the league to the next level, and we're committed to investing in the growth and development of women's football in the country."

Despite facing some criticism amid the Zifa elections, Magaya's resolve has only grown stronger. "The criticism has only strengthened our resolve," he said. "We intend to come back even stronger and ensure the continued growth of women's football in Zimbabwe."

Magaya also emphasized the importance of collaboration to achieve his vision for the league. "We can't do it alone," he acknowledged. "We need partners who share our passion for women's football and our commitment to empowering women through sport."

Looking to the future, Magaya remains excited about the potential of women's football in Zimbabwe. "The future of women's football in the country looks bright, and we're proud to be a part of it. We're not just investing in a league; we are investing in the empowerment of women, and that's something to be proud of," he said.

In a fitting end to the season, Herentals Queens were crowned champions after a dominant 7-0 victory over relegated Hope Academy at Luveve Stadium on Saturday. Permanent Secretary in the Sports Ministry, Nicholas Moyo, officiated at the coronation ceremony, presenting the champions with medals and the trophy.

Magaya's sponsorship extended beyond the league itself, with the Heart Women Soccer League Tournament also receiving financial backing. The tournament, which featured 16 teams, had a prize purse of over US$50,000, ensuring that the competition was fiercely contested and showcased the best in women's football.

Each of the 16 participating teams received a financial boost based on their performance in the tournament. The eight teams eliminated in the first round received US$1,500 each, while the four quarterfinalists received US$2,000 each. The fourth-placed team earned US$2,500, while the third-placed team took home US$3,000. Chapungu Queens, the inaugural champions, walked away with US$10,000, and runners-up Black Mambas Queens were awarded US$5,000.

As the season concludes, Magaya's commitment to women's football remains unwavering, and his plans for next year signal an exciting future for the Heart Women Soccer League and the players involved.