Leeroy Tafadzwa Matarutse was born and raised in Harare, Zimbabwe, growing up bilingual in a culturally rich environment. His passion for sports began at the age of six when he started playing soccer, which laid the foundation for his competitive nature. Over the years, Leeroy has participated in various sports, including handball, track, and volleyball, showcasing his versatility and commitment to athletic excellence.
Throughout his life, Leeroy has embraced leadership roles, such as serving as a prefect in primary school, a high school soccer captain, a senior school sports captain, and the captain of his Quiz Club. He was also an integral part of his school’s Arts and Culture Committee, demonstrating his dedication to both academics and extracurricular activities.
In pursuit of his dreams, Leeroy moved to the United States, leaving his family behind to chase high-level soccer opportunities. His journey has been defined by resilience and determination, excelling both on the field and in the classroom. Currently, he is a double major in Business Management and Sport Management at King University.
Leeroy has represented King University on national platforms, including the NCAA D2 APPLE Institute, focusing on drug abuse prevention and athlete protection, and the prestigious NCAA Careers in Sports Forum, where he networked with industry professionals. On campus, he has led as the captain of the Men’s Soccer Developmental Team and actively contributes to the Conference Carolinas Student-Athlete Mentorship Program.
Leeroy’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance, and he continues to inspire those around him with his drive to succeed in all aspects of life.