By Yanjanani Mendulo.

Chiradzulu, May 2, Mana: Malawi Congress Party (MCP) aspiring parliamentarian for Chiradzulu Nguludi, Winston Bergi on Tuesday awarded Suma FC, K150,000 and a trophy for emerging victorious against St. Theresa FC in the finals of Winston Bergi sponsored Tournament at a function that took place at Nguludi Boys Primary School ground over the week end.

St. Theresa FC, the runners-up, received K130,000 while each of the eight teams that were eliminated at zonal level prior to the finals walked away with K40,000.

Bergi told Malawi News Agency (Mana), that he was happy with the football tournament, saying it was organized to encourage football discipline apart from appreciating talent among youths in the constituency.

“Besides awarding the winners, I wanted to instill football discipline. That is why I also awarded K20,000 to the most disciplined team for others to emulate,” he added and disclosed plans to set up a vocational and technical training school to offer technical skills in carpentry, joinery, and bicycle repair, to empower youths beyond football.

Nguludi Zone Chairperson, McDonald Kapiche, hailed Bergi for introducing the tournament, saying this will motivate young players to strive for discipline and competitive playing standards.

“The trophy has inspired our players to work harder. It has given them reasons to improve and aim higher in the next competition,” added Kapiche.

Village Group head, Sumani 2 also commended the initiative, saying it has the potential to actively engage the youth in productive activities.

“It is very important to keep the youth busy. Time spent in participating in this trophy could have otherwise been used in unproductive things or even criminal activities. This tournament has spared the players and entire community from crime,” added Group Village Suman 2.

He further appealed to the sponsor to extend similar support to young women through a netball tournament, adding that this will help improve their talent in netball.