Central Region hit by rise in affiliation fees

Onward Gangata

THE cost of playing competitive football in the Central Region has risen, adding pressure on clubs already operating on tight budgets.

At their annual general meeting over the weekend, Central Region Soccer League clubs agreed to increase affiliation fees ahead of the new season. New entrants will pay US$7 450, while returning teams will pay US$3 940. The deadline for payment is February 28, and the season is scheduled to start in mid March.

The decision comes as the league seeks to tighten standards while coping with escalating operational costs. It also highlights the financial strain on community based clubs that form the backbone of regional football.

Central Region chairperson Patrick Hill said there would be little room for leniency.
“This year, we have set our affiliation fees at US$7 450 for the new clubs and US$3 940 for returning clubs. This seemingly steep affiliation fee has been driven by the operational costs and teams have agreed to have the deadline by the end of this month, which is the 28th of February. If a team fails to pay their affiliation by the set date, they will not be allowed to participate in the league. We already have four teams waiting to come aboard should there be any drop outs,” he said.

Affiliation is only one part of the financial burden on clubs. Travel, player welfare, ground maintenance and match day logistics continue to push costs upwards, making the upfront fee a significant hurdle — especially for new sides trying to establish themselves.

Six new teams will feature this season: Good Morning FC from Kwekwe, Vhembe FC of Beitbridge, Supa Strikers from Gwanda, Sabi Gold Mine of Zvishavane, Shurugwi FC and relegated Premier Soccer League side Kwekwe United.

Kwekwe United bring top flight experience into a division where financial strength often shapes competitiveness as much as results on the pitch.

The league is also tightening infrastructure regulations following complaints in recent seasons. Hill said stricter ground inspections would be enforced, with a neutral committee drawn from Matabeleland South, Midlands and the secretariat overseeing the process.

“We will be carrying out grounds inspection but this time around we will have a neutral committee to oversee the process. There was a lot of noise on the issue of grounds last season. We do not want to have the same issues again this year, so we will be very strict in that regard,” he said.

The tougher stance raises the stakes for clubs balancing ambition with limited resources. For many, meeting the new requirements will test their finances as much as their performance on the field.