Bongani Ndlovu
Lovemore Dube
FORMER Zimbabwe international Benjani Mwaruwari has graduated with a DipHE (Diploma of Higher Education) in Professional Football Coaching in Liverpool, UK, on Monday evening.
Speaking from the training ground of Plymouth Argyle Academy, Mwaruwari said he was thrilled to have completed the programme.
“Today I stand grateful and humbled as I complete my DipHE in Professional Football Coaching qualification. This achievement is not mine alone. I thank my family for their endless sacrifices, patience, and belief in me, even when the journey was demanding. To my friends, mentors, colleagues, and everyone who offered support, encouragement, and prayers — your belief gave me strength to keep going,’ said Benjani on his Facebook page.
The Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) in Professional Football Coaching is a specialised two-year qualification validated by Leeds Beckett University and delivered in partnership with the Premier League.
The programme bridges professional playing experience with coaching theory, covering tactics, player development, and modern game trends. It equips graduates to transition into coaching roles at youth and senior levels, while offering pathways to advanced diplomas such as UEFA B and A licences.
The course also provides practical skills, tactical understanding—drawing inspiration from philosophies like FC Barcelona’s—and networking opportunities essential for building a successful coaching career.
Benjani Mwaruwari, Fabrice Muamba, Marie Hourihan, and Martin Drury are among the distinguished graduates of the programme, each bringing a wealth of experience from their playing careers into coaching. Benjani played for clubs including Portsmouth and Manchester City, seems to have transitioned into youth and senior coaching roles, using his extensive European experience to mentor emerging talent.
Fabrice Muamba, the former Bolton Wanderers midfielder whose playing career was tragically cut short by a cardiac arrest. Marie Hourihan, the accomplished Irish goalkeeper with a career spanning Chelsea, Manchester City, and Braga, has moved into management and coaching, notably leading Plymouth Argyle Women.
Martin Drury, the former defender and Bradford City caretaker manager, brings his tactical knowledge and academy coaching experience to developing the next generation of footballers.
Mwaruwari, who has spent the past few years upgrading his coaching skills, said completing the programme was a milestone in his post-playing career.
“Good, this one is behind my back,” he said.
Online Reporter