[ this article can also be viewed at http://www.streetfootballworld.org/network/all-nwm/grupo-desportivo-de-manica/blog/scoring-in-the-vegetable-garden ]

We normally speak of the fruits of one's labour, but in Manica we are tempted to speak of the vegetables of one's labour. At GDM all senior players are encouraged to be involved in non-football activities that either teaches them something or helps the community. Two players, Hardlife Sande and Gibson Jemusse volunteered to take charge of the vegetable garden and with little resources and lots of dedication stated to show success. In 2008 they produced small quantities of food, which was sold at the local market and also consumed by the GDM football players. Hard (Hardlife) commented "it's a very good feeling to see my friends eat the food I produced- even harvesting after a long wait and dedicated watering feels very fulfilling."

In 2009 Hard and Gibson, on own initiative decided to start supplying the local orphanage (ANDA) with the veggies they grow. This experience seems to loosen new feelings of satisfaction and is causing quite a buzz in the community. "People are talking, they see that you can act rich even if you are poor. For us helping these young orphans feels just as good as scoring a goal in a big game" said Gibson.

Cristovao Simango, the GDM Director in charge of ethics and discipline commented "this example of Hard and Gibson spending hours daily, for no money, working hard to help others is an important symbolic statement in a world where football players sometimes act like superstars or spoilt kids. Hard and Gibson are the true superstars of this club, because of the type of youths they are becoming." Clearly these two are providing a really good example for the youngsters in town. In addition to the hours they spend on agriculture they also coach and mentor two Under 14 football teams.

Attachments:

gdm gibson hard work.jpg	218 Kb
gdm veg handover anda.jpg	149 Kb
gdm vegies in anda pot.jpg	228 Kb

Comments

Lazaro

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A equpa A ja terminou com o campeonato poul onde saiu a perder 1-4 o ultimo jogo realizado do dia 15/11/09 contra Ferroviario de Quelimane.

Tuesday 17 November 2009, 11:17

Adri-Marie

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True superstars indeed

Tuesday 17 November 2009, 15:10

germanmuzungu

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Muito obrigada to Lazaro for still keeping us updated.. I really love it that you took this resposibilty.

To Hard, Gibson and all other hard working people in Manica. It is an absolut great job that you are doing and I am happy and proud to know you. It is such an amazing feeling to tell my German friends about your engagement and see and feel there excitment grow... I am looking so very forward to see your family, Hard. Can't wait... :o)

Tuesday 17 November 2009, 16:01

Will

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Well done guys! You should be very proud of your hard work.

Tuesday 17 November 2009, 19:14

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