About One Community Junior League
Building Zimbabwe's Football Future Through International Standards
The One Community Junior League is Zimbabwe's first structured youth football development programme built on FIFA and FA international standards. Launched in 2025 with two founding zones – Norton and Chinhoyi – we're pioneering a new approach to grassroots football that puts player development at the heart of everything we do.
Our Vision
We believe Zimbabwe's football future starts in primary schools. By adopting the same youth development methods used by the world's leading football nations, we're creating a generation of technically skilled, tactically aware young players who love the game.
Our vision is simple: give every child access to quality football development, regardless of their school's resources. Through our zone sponsorship model, schools participate completely free of charge, removing the financial barriers that have historically limited youth football participation.
The FIFA 9v9 Standard
Unlike traditional 11-a-side football, the One Community Junior League uses the 9v9 format endorsed by FIFA and the English FA for players under 13. This isn't a compromise – it's the internationally proven best practice for developing young footballers.
Why 9v9 works:
Research from the FA Youth Development Review shows that 9v9 delivers dramatically better outcomes than 11v11 for young players:
- 135% more passes per player per match
- 280% more scoring attempts
- 85% more 1v1 situations
- 4x more ball touches for every player
On a right-sized pitch (73m x 46m), young players are constantly involved in the game. There's no hiding, no standing around waiting for the ball. Every player develops their technical skills in match situations, building the foundation for success at higher levels.
England adopted 9v9 for this age group in 2012. They subsequently won both the U17 and U20 World Cups. The evidence is clear: small-sided football creates better players.
Mixed-Gender Football
Following FIFA guidelines for youth development, the One Community Junior League operates mixed-gender teams as standard. At primary school age, there is no significant physical difference between boys and girls – what matters is ability, attitude, and love for the game.
Mixed-gender football:
- Creates larger player pools and better competition
- Exposes all players to diverse playing styles
- Teaches respect and teamwork from a young age
- Removes the need for schools to run separate programmes
- Aligns with international best practice
Schools may choose to field single-gender teams if they prefer, but we encourage inclusive participation that gives every child the opportunity to play.
The Zone Model
The One Community Junior League operates through geographic zones, each supported by a dedicated Zone Sponsor who becomes the champion of youth football in their community.
2025 Founding Zones:
Norton Zone
Eight primary schools competing in a full season of fixtures, with all teams wearing co-branded kits provided free of charge.
Chinhoyi Zone
Our second founding zone, bringing the same professional standards and development opportunities to Mashonaland West.
Each zone operates as a complete league with:
- 8 participating primary schools
- Professional referees at every match
- Full team kits and equipment provided
- CAF Category D coaching development for school coaches
- Regular fixtures from February to November
Coach Development
We don't just develop players – we develop coaches. The One Community Junior League provides fully-funded CAF Category D coaching courses for school coaches in participating zones.
This internationally recognised qualification ensures that young players receive proper instruction from day one, with coaches who understand modern youth development methodology. Our first cohort of coaches is currently undertaking their certification.
We also provide ongoing support through workshops, coaching resources, and mentorship from experienced football professionals.
The MWOS One Community Partnership
The One Community Junior League is proudly supported by MWOS One Community as the founding league sponsor. This partnership provides the national framework, league administration, and matched funding that makes the programme possible.
MWOS One Community's investment is matched dollar-for-dollar by Zone Sponsors, creating a sustainable funding model that keeps participation free for schools while ensuring professional standards throughout.
Together with our Zone Sponsors, we're proving that corporate social investment in youth football delivers real community impact – developing young people, supporting schools, and strengthening the social fabric of Zimbabwean communities.
What Schools Receive
Participating schools receive everything they need to compete at no cost:
- Full team kits – Professional strips for all players
- Match equipment – Balls, goals, and corner flags
- Professional referees – Qualified officials at every fixture
- Coach development – CAF Category D training opportunity
- Structured competition – Organised fixtures and league tables
- Recognition – Part of a high-profile national programme
There are no registration fees, no kit costs, no hidden charges. Zone Sponsors cover all costs so that schools can focus on what matters: giving children the opportunity to play.
National Expansion
Norton and Chinhoyi are just the beginning. The One Community Junior League is designed for national expansion, with zones across Zimbabwe.
Each new zone will maintain the same professional standards, FIFA-endorsed methodology, and community-centred approach that defines our founding zones. We're building a national network of youth football development that will feed talent into club football, provincial structures, and ultimately national team programmes.
Interested in bringing a zone to your community? We're actively seeking Zone Sponsors who share our vision for youth development.
Join the Movement
Schools: Contact us to register your interest for future zones or to join waiting lists for existing zones.
Businesses: Become a Zone Sponsor and be the champion of grassroots football in your community. Zone Sponsorship opportunities are limited – secure your territory today.
Supporters: Follow our journey on social media and attend matches in your area. Every cheer matters.
Contact us at marketing@juniorleague.co.zw
One Community Junior League – United Through the Game