Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze-Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHIDO CHIZONDO became the new substantive Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League in comprehensive fashion, brushing aside the challenge of her only rival Ntokoziso Moyo following the division’s elective annual meeting in Harare yesterday.
Chizondo swept to a 13-3 win over Moyo.
The public relations executive was however, not being consumed in the euphoria of her big win as she is under no illusions about the tough task awaiting her in the turnaround bid of the women’s game.
Chizondo takes over from veteran Theresa Maguraushe, who now sets off into the sun after she held the fort on an interim basis for two years including during the era of the ZIFA Normalisation Committee.
The other executive members elected onto the ZWPSL board are Lewis Muzhara (Vice Chairperson), Board Members: Mercy Makuwatsine, James Shamuyarira Mupfudza, Rugwevera Sibusisiwe Dube and Talent Chitsaka.
This becomes the first ZWPSL substantive committee after the dissolution of the Barbra Chikosi-led executive by the ZIFA Normalisation Committee in 2023 when Zimbabwe emerged from 18-months of FIFA enforced international ban.
Chizondo said their primary responsibility was to ensure a seamless continuation of league activities and vowed to hit the ground running.
“It is with great honour that I stand here as the newly elected leader of the ZWPSL… we acknowledge the dedication of our outgoing board in taking our game thus far,” said Chizondo.
“I also appreciate your faith in me, to help me reshape the narrative in women’s football.
“Over the past years, the outgoing board have worked tirelessly to enhance the reception and perception of our league, highlighting the significant potential of our league.
“Our role is to elevate the league further by building upon the solid foundation that has already been laid so moving forward, accountability, commitment and unity are key.”
The overwhelming support from the electorate highlighted the confidence that the clubs have in Chizondo’s leadership credentials and abilities.
With a clear vision and a strong mandate, the new committee are eager to implement strategies to address the issues currently haunting the league.
The ZWPSL is currently on a mid-season break with games expected to resume on August 9.
Chizondo’s incoming deputy Lewis Muzhara said their attention is already on the critical task of raising funds and luring sponsorship for the league.
He said they already started exploring innovative strategies to secure the necessary resources for the Premiership whose coffers are currently dry.
“We understand that a well-funded league would not only enhance the quality of the competition but also support the development of the sport as a whole,” said Muzhara.
Peter Tanyanyiwa