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Veronica Gwaze
Sports Reporter
NORMAN Mapeza visibly cuts the image of a gritty, temperamental and no nonsense coach.
To some he is also a perfectionist and a hard-to-please gaffer who barely publicly acknowledges individual brilliance.
Yet there are others who share a different view.
Those familiar with his softer side view him as a football man who has a deep passion for the game.
His team sits top on the log standings with 38 points from 18 games, five ahead of second-placed Ngezi Platinum Stars and Simba Bhora.
Mapeza spends most of his time studying the game. Among those who understand and appreciate him is Ngezi Platinum Stars coach Takesure “Deco” Chiragwi.
The two developed a close relationship in 2004 when Mapeza was the player/assistant coach at CAPS United.
“He became my brother and mentor, often telling me motivational stories and assuring me that with discipline and hard work, we could achieve a lot,” he said.
“I view him as a big brother who moulded me on and off the pitch, when I joined Shabanie Mine, he would follow-up and help.
“He treated me like a younger brother, I look at him as more than a coach, he would prepare beef bones and invite me over to his place to feast.
This week, the two coaches lock horns at Mandava in a top of the table clash.
Walter Musona also speaks highly of Mapeza.
“We had some issues but I am happy we found our way back to each other; we talk, we are perfectly fine,” he said.
“I look at him like a father for his parental love, returning from South Africa, he took me and gave me another shot at life.
“I learnt that if you are disciplined, dedicated and loyal, he never falls short of love for you and he even commits to mentor you away from the pitch.
“He is also quick to forgive when you show remorse but most people do not understand him.”
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter