Zanaco Football Club has officially launched the Zanaco Legends Tournament and unveiled its official replica jersey, marking a significant milestone in the club’s efforts to honour the players who helped shape both the club’s history and Zambian football.
The inaugural tournament will bring together four of Zambia’s most Iconic football clubs, Zanaco FC, Kabwe Warriors, Mufulira Wanderers and Nkana FC.
Speaking during the official launch, Zanaco FC Chief Executive Officer, Owen Chimpinde, said the tournament reflects the club’s commitment to recognising the pioneers of the game while preserving their legacy for future generations.
“At Zanaco Football Club, we believe that our legends are the foundation upon which the future of our game is built. Through this tournament, we seek to honour their contribution while preserving the rich heritage of our sport.” Chimpinde said.
Zanaco FC CEO, Owen Chansa Chimpinde
The club also announced that the official Zanaco FC replica jersey will retail at K650, giving supporters an opportunity to own a piece of the club’s history while backing the Legends Tournament initiative.
Zanaco Legends Replica
Gracing the event, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary, Kangwa Chileshe described the initiative as an important platform for celebrating football legends while promoting the welfare of former players and the continued development of the sport.
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe
“The Zanaco Legends Tournament is morel. than a series of football matches. It is a platform through which we can celebrate the men who contributed to the development of the game… and inspired generations of supporters across the country.” Chileshe said.
Representing one of the participating clubs, Mufulira Wanderers General Secretary, Mwila Mumba said the tournament would not only celebrate former players but also strengthen relationships among some of Zambia’s most iconic football institutions.
Mufulira Wanderers General Secretary Mwila Mumba
“It is a fitting tribute to the men and women whose passion, dedication and talent laid the foundation for the growth of Zambian football. Beyond celebrating our legends, this tournament will strengthen the bonds between our football clubs.” Mumba said.
Meanwhile, AFCON 2012 wiiner and Kabwe Warriors legend, Chintu Kampamba, who delivered remarks on behalf of Club Chief Executive Officer, Chilombo Chabwe, said the competition would provide an opportunity for younger generations to connect with the country’s football heritage.
Chintu Kampamba, former Kabwe Warriors player
“This tournament gives us an opportunity to celebrate that history. We also hope that the tournament will inspire young players to appreciate the history of the game and learn from those who came before them.” Kampamba said.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) also pledged its technical support for the tournament, describing the initiative as an important step towards preserving the country’s football heritage and promoting unity within the game.
Speaking on behalf of the association, the FAZ Deputy General Secretary, Iva Lengwe, said the tournament would serve as a fitting tribute to Zambia’s football icons while encouraging collaboration among clubs and stakeholders.
FAZ Deputy General Secretary, Iva Lengwe
“FAZ welcomes initiatives that bring football institutions together, promote sportsmanship and strengthen relationships among clubs and other stakeholders.” Lengwe said.
The competition will kick off with the semi-finals on 31 October at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium before concluding with the final on 21 November at Heroes Stadium.
