Be role models, local sports stars urged

use sport as tool to fight violence against women.
McCollough was speaking on the sidelines of a two-day training workshop with the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe at Callies Sports Club yesterday.
He said the highlight of the workshop, graced by club executives, players, coaches and the women’s senior national football team, was the enthusiasm to learn that was shown by the participants.
“I was impressed by the commitment, the eagerness to learn and participate in all the topics we covered.
“Since it was the first of its kind in Zimbabwe, participants had a positive response, especially in the turnout,” McCollough said.
The American said sport had shaped his life.
McCollough played football for 12 years in the USA and has worked with more than 50 countries globally.
During last year’s World Cup in South Africa, McCollough conducted workshops in conjunction with Fifa and the local organising committee.
The veteran sports administrator is the chairman of the Athlete Council with the US Soccer Federation.
He is also the vice-chairman of the US Olympic Committee.
Paul Gundani, the FUZ secretary-general, said the purpose of the workshop is to change the mindset of players, coaches and administrators so that they can believe that they can shape the future of football.
Gundani said some major topics included rebranding local football and marketing and sourcing sponsorship.
“As FUZ our long term goals are to negotiate sponsorship for a league that caters for players’ salaries by 2014.
“There is need to have strong and vibrant academies across the country that act as feeder to clubs and the national teams,” Gundani said.
Gundani added that the attendance of Warriors coach Norman Mapeza at the workshop showed his commitment to uplifting local players.
Mapeza saluted FUZ for organising the workshop.