Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
DYNAMOS legend, Norman Maroto who passed on last week was given a rousing send off in Mugugu Village, Guruve this Monday.
Football is a universal language and Norman Maroto made millions understand the meaning, and just like the impact he made on the pitch, people from across different persuasions gathered in Mugugu Village in Guruve to pay their last respects to one of Dynamos’ illustrious sons.
The Zimbabwe Football Association, The Premier Soccer League, former Dynamos players, coaches, referees, fans and politicians all gathered to pay their last respects.
They say charity begins at home, his community from Tynwald South in Harare, where Norman Maroto grew up had nothing but praises for a man they described as a communiry leader.
“In Tynwald he was a leader and for us we learnt a lot. As a youngster he told me to write down my yearly goals and five year goals.”
Maroto’s influence cut across the football divide and everyone described him as a visionary.
“As a youngster, before I became Dynamos chairman he came to my office and asked for attachment after he had done his IT course just after A level, he was a visionary as he was 20 then but already planning for life after football that’s why it was easier for him after retirement.”
His close friends are at a loss of words
“It i’s sad he had become more than a friend, he was a brother, he was so passionate and believed football can be be better. He had a vision and was always positive despite the low moments,” said a friend of the late, Desmond Maringwa.
Maroto might be gone but his distinct smile lasts forever. legends do not die they rest. Lumumba has rested.
