THE Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni has expressed pride in Red Arrows Women’s Football professional players, Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya, noting that their achievements are a reflection of the growth of the Air Force.
The Commander, represented by the ZAF Chief of Training, Brigadier Geoffery Hambulo on Wednesday morning when received various donated sports items that the two players have donated to the club.
Chanda who is currently playing for Orlando Pride in the United States of America (USA) has also honored the Commander with her Orlando Pride medal Championship which she won in their USA National Women’s League last month.
While urging other female players to emulate the spirit of the two professional players, the Commander said the success of the two young players is also the pride of the Air Force and nation.
“By playing for Orlando Pride and Juarez, you have because Zambia’s Ambassadors Kuchalo. You are not only representing yourselves but also representing this institution, your families and many young Zambian women,” added the commander.
The commander added that the girl’s donation stands as a celebration of success, humility and a deep sense of belonging, adding that the donated equipment will help mould more young girls who look up to them as models into becoming professional footballers.
“Your act reminds us that success is not just about reaching the pinnacle of our careers but remembering where we came from. On behalf of ZAF and the Red Arrows Women’s Football Club, allow me to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for this gesture.
The commander has also authorised the elevation and attestation of Grace Chanda from her civilian portfolio into the Zambia Air Force’s Non Commissioned Corp (NCO) as Leading Aircraftwoman (LAC).
And in her speech, Chanda who also spoke on behalf of Chilufya said it was important for them to give back to Arrows because they could not have been where they are today if not for the club.
She said the two and many other girls were grateful for what ZAF and Command had done to get to where they are now adding that the donation is simply an encouragement to their fellow team players to become better and go beyond.
“This is what we use to train where we are and we want our friends here to have too so that we can become better for Zambia. We want us all to be molded well so that we can represent Zambia well, even beyond,” she said.
The donation, included 20 agility huddles, 30 footballs, 60 plate cons, 40 bibs, whistles and 20 replica jerseys.
Also, the ladies presented to the Air Force Commander their numbered jerseys 10 and 25 respectively, that they use when on national duties with the Copper Queens.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba December 18, 2024
 Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni has expressed pride in Red Arrows Women’s Football professional players, Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya, noting that their achievements are a reflection of the growth of the Air Force.){kind=link}