dyton mupawaenda
Robson Sharuko-Editor
THE biggest rebellion in domestic football, since the top-flight clubs rebelled against ZIFA at the end of 1992 to run their affairs under the PSL, netted Highlanders more than US$7 000 on Sunday.
This was an initiative from their fans who decided to boycott the league match against ZPC Kariba at Barbourfields and, instead, converge at their club house to donate to the team.
The organisers said this was a response to the decision by the Premier Soccer League to fine Bosso US$6 000 for the part their fans played in clashes at Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva.
They wanted the club house event to raise the funds for Bosso to settle the fine.
Rather than pay, at least, US$3 at Barbourfields to watch Bosso’s league match against ZPC Kariba, the organisers rallied the fans to converge at the team’s club house.
Unlike the money raised from gate-takings, a chunk of which would also be paid to various partners like the PSL, ZIFA and the Bulawayo City Council, the organisers felt these donations would not be subjected to any deductions.
Hosts Simba Bhora were also fined US$6 000 for the part their fans played in the fracas during the controversial Chibuku Super Cup quarter-final showdown.
The total raised by Bosso fans could shoot, in terms of value, when all the reconciliations from the club’s supporters chapters are completed.
The Bosso leadership said they were still reconciling those figures but released what was realised from the fans who gathered at the club house and the fans’ chapters in Harare, South Africa and Victoria Falls.
Highlanders fans in Europe, the United States, Canada and Australia also took part in this unique fundraising drive.
The club realised US$5 974 from donations at the club house, which was turned into a venue for various activities, including performances by local musicians.
The Rest of Ground US$3 tickets raised US$4 779, which automatically means there were more than a thousand people at the team’s club house.
The US$5 wing tickets raised US$765 while the US$10 VIP tickets raised US$390.
There were two other donations which raised US$40.
The Harare Chapter raised US$600, the Victoria Falls Chapter raised US$317 and the South African Chapter raised R10 990.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude. The fundraising event held at the Highlanders Clubhouse on October 6, 2024, was a resounding success, thanks to the generosity of our amazing fans,” said Bosso treasurer Israel Moyo, in a statement.
“We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you who contributed.
“Please note this is not exhaustive as some chapters are still reconciling their figures.
“Thank you again for your unwavering support. We are truly humbled by your generosity and your love for the club.”
Online Reporter