Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA will for the first time provide direct financial support to Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League clubs, using part of the US$5 million it expects to receive from Government.
Association president Nqobile Magwizi said the money would help clubs meet operating costs, improve playing conditions and strengthen the league that supplies players to the Mighty Warriors and junior national teams.
Magwizi confirmed the commitment in an exclusive interview with Zimpapers Sports Hub on the sidelines of the unveiling of the new national-team coaches.
“We have committed to bringing financial assistance to the ZWPSL as part of our efforts to transform domestic women’s football and build a sustainable base,” he said.
ZIFA has not yet disclosed how much will be allocated to the league, when payments will begin or how the money will be shared among clubs.
Magwizi said the association’s marketing team was also looking for corporate partners to support the league beyond the proposed cash injection.
Financial problems have left many top-flight clubs without youth teams or clear development structures.
They largely depend on players emerging from school tournaments and community football, with some only entering structured football in their early 20s.
The lack of investment has weakened player development and contributed to the late identification of talent.
“We cannot expect the Mighty Warriors to do well when the base of the pyramid is missing,” said Magwizi.
“That is why part of our transformation plan has to include financial assistance for the ZWPSL and the establishment of a junior league.
“Strengthening the ZWPSL is central to our long-term vision. The league serves as the primary source of players for the Mighty Warriors, and how the national team performs reflects the standard of our leagues.”
ZIFA has also appointed Croatian coach Stella Gotal, a UEFA Pro Licence holder, to lead the Mighty Warriors on a four-year contract, making her the first foreign coach to take charge of the team.
Rosemary Mugadza will coach the national Under-20 side, while Jatson Maphosa takes charge of the Under-17s.
“We want women’s football to have its own theatre in Zimbabwe, its own competitions and talent-identification channel, its own technical programme and a coaching pipeline,” said Magwizi.
“A young girl playing football anywhere in Zimbabwe must be able to see a clear and realistic pathway towards representing her country in the same way that a young boy can.”
