Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AGAMA’s promotion into the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League was supposed to spark excitement for the Mt Darwin community.
Yet the league newbabies appear stuck in challenges that have clouded both the excitement and preparations for their maiden top-flight appearance.
The Mt Darwin-based side may have to endure a slow start to their debut Premiership football season with the club already staring at financial and sponsorship constraints.
Club chief executive, Entrodge Usayi, revealed to Zimpapers Sports Hub they were still learning along the way.
“Since promotion into the PSL we have realised that there is a lot to learn on how football business is done in the top-flight league,” Usayi said.
“Recently, we took part in a PSL workshop, we also learnt more on club administration, club licensing and marketing strategy, areas that we have to look into.”
Last season, Agama were the most financially stable Northern Region league side, boasting of a US$200,000 budget and good player signings.
However, top-flight football comes with more financial demands.
According to their preliminary budget for the season, Agama need at least US$900,000 to ensure a smooth operation throughout the campaign.
However, without a committed sponsor, the club literally survive from hand to mouth and do not have the capacity to raise a lump sum for the year.
Agama will be expected to use Wadzanai which also explains their “bloated” budget as stadium hire fares and extra camping charges come into play.
The club is owned by Malvern Moyo, who is currently their primary sponsor, and this has provoked questions on sustainability of individual sponsorship.
“The situation is not entirely looking good hence we are out looking for sponsors so that we compliment what we have,” he said.
“We are willing to engage those who want to come on board for sponsorship or partnership arrangements.
“The club is ready to create the best environment which will give them value for their investment because we are aware that football is a business and we both have to win.
“As a club we are willing to learn and grow the brand.”
Of the four clubs that were promoted into the Premier Soccer League this year, only Agama have been quiet on off-season business and pre-season preparations.
