Murambidzi Turns to Grassroots Football with Launch of Spartans FC

Bernard Murambidzi launches Spartans FC in Murewa (image source)

Harare — Prominent businessman and former Sky Tournament chairperson Bernard Murambidzi has shifted his focus to grassroots football development with the launch of Spartans FC, a rural-based club founded in Murewa in 2024. The initiative reflects Murambidzi’s commitment to bridging the gap between untapped rural talent and professional football scouting structures, which often overlook young athletes outside major urban centres.

Murambidzi describes Spartans FC as more than a football club, positioning it as a platform for social transformation and youth empowerment. “Social responsibility is our foundation, not an afterthought,” he said in an interview with Southerton Business Times. “We operate in spaces where young people possess immense talent but face limited opportunities. Spartans FC exists to be that opportunity.”

He explained that the club was born out of a sense of duty to communities where sport can offer structure, discipline and hope. “For us, grassroots football is about belief,” Murambidzi added. “Every training session and every match reinforces the idea that a young person’s background does not dictate their future.”

focusing on grassroots football, youth empowerment, and rural talent development, aiming to build Zimbabwe’s next generation of disciplined athletes and community leaders (image source)

Murambidzi is no stranger to talent identification, having previously organised high-profile sporting platforms such as the Sky Tournament. He believes structured sport plays a critical role in shaping character and purpose, particularly among rural youth.

Looking ahead, Murambidzi envisions Spartans FC evolving into a full-scale sports academy, integrating football training with education and life-skills development. “Our goal is to produce disciplined athletes who are also responsible citizens and future leaders,” he said. “We want to build a legacy that benefits Zimbabwean youth and sports development for generations.”

To dedicate himself fully to the project, Murambidzi recently stepped down as Sky Tournament chairperson, committing his full attention to the growth and sustainability of Spartans FC.