Dreams from the Dust : The City SC Harare Story

The program began with its first talent identification sessions in December 2024, laying the foundation for two boys’ teams at the U13 and U15 age groups. City SC Harare officially launched in April 2025, giving selected players the opportunity to train, compete in a full league schedule and participate in local tournaments—all at no cost to their families.

Led by City SC Carlsbad coach Taps Manhungo, the program was founded using the same player-development principles and coaching methodology that guide City SC in Carlsbad. Coach Taps and the team in Zimbabwe set out to provide talented young athletes with access to quality coaching, equipment and meaningful opportunities to pursue their passion for the game.

The impact extended far beyond the field. City SC Harare was designed to empower young athletes, create pathways to future success and help address social challenges within the local community. Removing financial barriers was a central part of that mission, particularly the cost of transportation, which often prevents players from participating in organized sports.

City SC Harare was also selected as the beneficiary of City SC Carlsbad’s annual Giving Back Friendlies on January 4, 2025. Donations from the event helped support essential program needs, including equipment, field access, insurance, coaching, video resources and player transportation.

What began with two boys’ teams has quickly grown into an academy serving more than 80 players across age groups from U11 through U19. Two coaches now work with the program on a full-time basis, providing consistent training, mentorship and support to players throughout the academy. This growth reflects both the tremendous interest within the community and the continued need for accessible, high-quality soccer opportunities in Harare.

City SC Harare brought the City SC mission to life on an international stage—using soccer to ignite passion, bring joy and create opportunities that could make a lasting difference.

Support City SC Harare

City SC Harare relies on the generosity of its community to provide more than 80 young athletes with quality coaching, mentorship, equipment and a safe, structured environment—all at no cost to their families.

Approximately $610 per month keeps the academy operating. This supports stipends for two full-time coaches, team transportation, referee fees, training water, post-game meals, field maintenance and rental, player welfare and emergency assistance, and tournament and matchday expenses.

The program also has ongoing equipment and shipping needs, including approximately $100 for footballs, training cones and pinnies and $200 to ship donated jerseys and kits from the United States to Zimbabwe.

Every contribution makes a meaningful difference:

• $20 provides training water for a month
• $30 helps provide players with lunch after games
• $50 supports training-ground maintenance and rental
• $100 helps transport players and teams
• $150 supports one coach’s monthly stipend
• $610 funds a full month of academy operations

Every gift helps remove financial barriers and gives more children the opportunity to develop as players, leaders and members of their community.

To learn more about City SC Harare visit: https://cityscharare.com/