Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere and Tongai Mashonga, Zimpapers Sports Hub
KELVIN Kaindu has spoken of ambition and clarity of purpose as the driving forces behind his decision to join newly promoted Hardrock FC, a club determined to make a bold statement in its maiden Premier Soccer League campaign.
The former Dynamos coach has signed a two‑year contract with the Midlands outfit, signalling intent from a side unwilling to frame its debut season around survival alone.
Hardrock are in the final stages of completing a state‑of‑the‑art stadium in Kwekwe and early indications suggest they will be active in the transfer market, with several high‑profile names already linked to the club.
Club leadership has outlined a long‑term vision that blends competitiveness with local talent development, laying foundations to challenge the league’s established powers in the coming years.
Kaindu, who officially assumed his role at Chahwanda Stadium, said the scale of the project and the seriousness of the club’s plans convinced him to take on the challenge.
“This is a club with ambition and a clear vision. I am delighted to be part of this project and look forward to working with the players and the technical team to build a competitive side,” said Kaindu.
His arrival has sparked familiar reunions. Kaindu will once again work alongside former Highlanders goalkeeper Munyaradzi Diya, with the pair both named in the new Hardrock technical department. Prince Matore and Kelvin Maphosa complete the core of the coaching team.
Kaindu and Diya previously worked together at Bosso between 2012 and 2013, a period that saw the Bulawayo giants finish second in the league in consecutive seasons.
The Zambian coach sealed the deal on Saturday, putting pen to paper after Hardrock tabled an offer he could not refuse. The agreement was capped by the presentation of a brand‑new vehicle from club president and sponsor Shepherd Chahwanda, a businessman and gold mining magnate.
Diya, now installed as Hardrock’s goalkeepers coach, welcomed the reunion.
“It has always been good to work with coach Kelvin Kaindu. He is a professional coach, a great motivator and a great believer in God. We are greatly looking forward to the coming season,” he said.
Also back in Kaindu’s inner circle is former Warriors, AmaZulu and Dynamos midfielder Ronald “Gidiza” Sibanda.
The two worked together at Dynamos, where Sibanda served as team manager, a role he has now resumed at Hardrock.
Luke “Vahombe” Masomere, who had been Technical Director and third assistant coach, and Rutherford Matondo have amicably parted ways with the club to make room for the new technical setup.
Hardrock are expected to begin pre‑season preparations in the coming weeks as they build towards what promises to be a landmark campaign for the ambitious newcomers.
Hardrock FC Technical Department
Head coach: Kelvin Kaindu, won the Chibuku Super Cup with Dynamos
First assistant: Prince Matore, was with Sheasham last season
Second assistant: Calvin Maphosa, won the Central Region Soccer League title and secured PSL promotion as head coach
Third assistant: Isaac Nyabvure
Goalkeepers coach: Munyaradzi Diya
Assistant goalkeepers coach: Phumuzile Zikhali
Team manager: Ronald “Gidiza” Sibanda, previously worked with Kaindu at Dynamos
