People in the southwest are coming together to help fund an opportunity for a local soccer player.
10-year-old Tatenda Nyabadza has been invited to the SURF Tournament in Barcelona this fall. A family friend started a Go Fund Me for them to help with some of the costs associated with the trip.
Collin, his father, says it could open some doors for him.
"This is a great opportunity because we went to Spain to play in another youth tournament in Madrid," Collin Nyabadza said. "That's when he was selected again. They felt he was a special talent so they offered him this opportunity."
Tatenda played for a Canadian team at the World Challenge in Madrid where they lost to Brazil in the semifinal.
"With the way he's passionate about soccer," Collin said. "With the way he's determined, he's always saying at some point he'd like to play with Barcelona or Real Madrid. This is an opportunity to showcase some of those skills."
Collin will cover the cost of airfare for himself and Tatenda, but the Go Fund Me is planning to support the cost of registration, accommodation, and other essential expenses.
They've raised $1170 towards their $7000 goal so far.
"I want to thank all those who have already donated so far," Collin said. "We really appreciate their kindness and support to us. Swift Current is a great community to live in."
Tatenda has also been running a lemonade stand to raise some of the funds needed for their trip.
Collin is a volunteer soccer coach in the community and runs a non-profit organization, The Collin Nyabadza Children’s Voice Charitable Trust (CNCVCT), which works to empower underprivileged children in Zimbabwe by providing access to education, healthcare, and a brighter future.