The 2024 HTD Beach Soccer  Zonal League kicked off with a wave of excitement at Sunbird Livingstonia in Salima, opening up for another season of beach soccer in Malawi.

In the ceremonial opener for the Salima Zonal League, Big 2 Munali defeated Sengabay Warriors 3-2, kicking off what promises to be a memorable championship.

FAM President Fleetwood Haiya, who graced the event, expressed his optimism about the timing of the championship.

“This tournament comes at a perfect time, allowing us to prepare for the upcoming AFCON Beach Soccer tournament in Egypt next month,” Haiya stated.

He also urged the association to actively seek out sponsors to ensure the league’s growth and sustainability.

National Beach Soccer Association Chairperson, Gift Chimbalanga, praised President Haiya for his impact on beach soccer since taking office.

“Under Fleetwood Haiya’s leadership, we’ve seen remarkable progress. Despite financial challenges, we traveled to COSAFA and brought home a bronze medal, a huge motivation for us,” Chimbalanga said.

The zonal Leagues act as qualifiers for the national championship with the winners of  the five Zonal League and the runner  in the hosting Zonal qualifying for the national championship.

This exciting competition has not only brought focus on Malawian beach soccer’s budding talent but also laid foundations for the sport’s future.