Former Bosso Juniors star appointed head coach in US

FORMER Highlanders Under-18 star of the 1998/9 season junior league Duma Magagula has been appointed head coach of the women’s soccer programme at Holy Cross College in Indiana.

The Catholic institution is expecting the former Kenyon College, Cape Cope Crusaders and Highlanders hardman to bring a wealth of history and deep commitment to the sport and a holistic development of student athletes.

“Having served as the associate head coach for both the men and women’s soccer teams at Holy Cross College since 2017, Coach Magagula has been instrumental in the growth and success of these programmes. His dedication and involvement have been pivotal in the women’s soccer team’s continued development,” read a statement in the college’s website.

Omar Gallo, the director of soccer operations and head coach of men’s soccer at Holy Cross College had this to say about Magagula: “This marks a thrilling chapter for our women’s soccer programme. Coach Magagula’s exceptional leadership and steadfast loyalty have significantly shaped our teams. His unique ability to enhance player development on the field and personal growth off it has been pivotal to our success. Coach Magagula’s enduring dedication is revered by players past and present, solidifying my confidence in his perfect fit for Holy Cross College. I congratulate him on this new role and extend my best wishes to him and his wife Emily.”

Magagula has also been involved with the Michiana Echo Premier Soccer Club since 2009.

At Michiana, he works as Academy Director and is in charge of many teams including high schools soccer.

He has previous coaching experience having led Trinity School from 2007-2016 and the Washington High School boys’ team from 2005-2006.
Invaders Soccer Club is among other clubs he coached.

Magagula is the only Black women’s soccer head coach in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC).

“This appointment not only highlights his exceptional coaching abilities but also underscores the inclusivity and diversity that Holy Cross College values in its leadership and athletic programmes.

College sport president Marco Clark had this to say about the appointment: “At Holy Cross College, part of our Strategic Plan emphasizes the enrichment of student life through athletics. Having a seasoned leader like Coach Magagula, who deeply understands our mission and is committed to moulding our student-athletes into tomorrow’s leaders, aligns perfectly with our vision. His long-standing association with our college ensures that he will bring not only his expertise in soccer but also a profound understanding of how sports can significantly enhance the student experience on campus.”

Magagula’s playing career involved playing for Indiana Invaders PDL, Cape Cope Crusaders PDL, Boston Bulldogs PDL, Kenyon College, and Highlanders FC in the Zimbabwe Premier League.

Magagula is a UEFA B License candidate, having already completed his UEFA C License in December 2022 and his USSF C License in November 2012.

After the appointment Magagula said: “I am thrilled to step into the role of head coach for the women’s soccer programme at Holy Cross College. My passion for developing not just skilled soccer players, but well-rounded individuals, aligns perfectly with the mission of Holy Cross College. I look forward to continuing to build a culture of integrity, strong character, and academic excellence within our team.”