Goals, Growth and Greater Futures: HCC Sports Programme Empowers Young Footballers in Mchinji

In September 2026, the HCC Sports Programme, supported by the UEFA Foundation for Children, showed what structured football can do for young people in rural Malawi. Boys and girls from Under-9 to Under-20 trained at the Holistic Community Center (HCC) ground in Mchinji District, with 149 players taking part during the month and 287 registered in total.

More Than Football

Training combined technical, tactical, physical and personal development. Players practised passing, ball control, dribbling, attacking play, set pieces, fitness, stamina, speed and agility. Life-skills sessions taught discipline, respect, teamwork, leadership, healthy lifestyles, punctuality and balancing football with education.

Competing in the Mchinji District Youth Football League

HCC teams also competed in the Mchinji District Youth Football League and the J-Map Women Trophy. After the first round, the Under-20 team stood first in the Mkanda Zone with 18 points from seven games, including wins of 6-0 over Dule FC and 3-1 over Madzi FC. The Under-16 team finished second with 19 points, and the Under-14 team placed third.

Rising Stars

Collings Makoto, second captain of the Under-16 team, has emerged as a standout talent for both the Under-16 and Under-19 sides. Known for his dribbling, finishing and leadership, he dreams of playing for a major club in Malawi or abroad. In the Under-20 team, Benjamin Jere leads the league’s top scorers for his age group.

Join Our Mission

Support Our Aim Foundation in giving young people in Malawi safe spaces to play, learn and lead. Every player deserves the chance to grow, on and off the pitch.