Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE MCM Estate Northern Regional League Division 1 wants clubs to first pay affiliation fees and other dues before participation.
Chairman Sweeney Mushonga confirmed the position saying the move could ensure stability for the league.
“In the past, we have given newly promoted clubs the benefit of the doubt that they would honour their obligations during the course of the season. “Sadly, we have seen these clubs failing to pay these foundational fees and becoming a problem for the entire structure,” said Mushonga.
“They often faced insolvency, forced relegation due to financial collapse, or struggled to complete fixtures, which severely devalued the competition.”
Under the new mandate, no club will be permitted to participate in fixtures or draws until its affiliation fee is secured by the league.
This upfront capital is intended to create operational stability and allow predictable planning both for clubs and the league administrators.
The hardline approach is expected to boost competition within the league as it will see new members matching seasoned teams, resource-wise.
A total of six new teams are expected to be part of the league this season and they have all paid their affiliation and subscription fees in full.
“Securing this revenue first is our absolute priority, it’s the cornerstone upon which we intend to launch a competitive 2026 season,” said Mushonga.
“We are turning right onto the avenue of sustainability before we can map out the rest of the journey. This is the non-negotiable first step.”
The league administration indicates that all they are worried about is the guarantee that teams will be able to pay referees and fulfil fixtures.
“In the past we had teams playing league matches without paying affiliation fees as they presented seemingly tenable payment plans.
“In the majority of cases where the league accepted these payment plans and allowed the clubs to participate in the league, the clubs failed to make good on the plans and some have gone on to be relegated.”
He said that was the case with DZ Royals, CCLEE Mhangura and Norton Community.
“Now at this moment we can’t continue taking in teams who show incapacity,” he added. The league is scheduled to kick off on February 28.
