Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
FORMER top-flight midfielder Welcome Ndiweni has turned a new page in his football journey after taking up a coaching role at Southern Region Division One side Gwanda Pirates.
Ndiweni, who featured for a number of Premiership clubs including Masvingo United, FC Platinum, Highlanders and Bulawayo City, has been romped in by head coach Johannes Ngodzo into his coaching staff.
This is a season after turning out for the club as a player.
The transition from the pitch to the dugout marks a significant shift for the experienced footballer, who is now looking to channel his knowledge of the game into developing players and contributing from the technical bench.
Speaking on his new role, Ndiweni said the decision to venture into coaching was one he had been preparing for.
“This is a new chapter in my life and one that I am really excited about. I have always known that football would not end with playing, so I started preparing myself for this transition,” said Ndiweni.
Having played at the highest level locally, Ndiweni brings with him a wealth of experience that Gwanda Pirates will be hoping to tap into as they push for a strong campaign.
His journey through some of Zimbabwe’s biggest clubs has given him valuable insight into the demands of the game, something he believes will help him in his new role.
“I have learnt a lot throughout my career playing for different teams and under different coaches. Now it’s about passing on that knowledge to the younger players and helping them grow,” he said.
Ndiweni added that stepping into coaching at a club he is already familiar with has made the transition smoother.
“Being at Gwanda Pirates last season as a player has made things easier for me. I understand the environment, the players and the expectations, so settling into the role has not been difficult,” he said.
The former midfielder also revealed that he is eager to continue learning and improving as a coach, acknowledging that the role comes with new challenges.
“Coaching is different from playing, there is a lot more responsibility, but I am ready to learn every day. I am working closely with the head coach and the rest of the technical team to make sure we improve as a unit,” he said.
Ndiweni’s appointment reflects a growing trend of former players taking up coaching roles, bringing fresh ideas and modern approaches to the game.
“This is just the beginning for me as a coach. I want to grow, gain more experience and hopefully make a positive impact wherever I go,” he said.
