Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE plight of former Dynamos player and coach Elvis “Chuchu” Chiweshe has reignited calls for ZIFA, clubs and other stakeholders to establish sustainable welfare programmes for retired footballers.
Chiweshe, one of the prominent figures in Dynamos’ history, is facing serious financial and health challenges.
The former Warriors midfielder is said to have gone for months without paying rent and is struggling to afford food and medication as he battles severe back pain.
His situation has cast the spotlight on the hardships faced by some of the players who brought honour to Zimbabwean football but have little to show for their contributions after retirement.
Chiweshe joined Dynamos from Eagles in 1988 and retired in 1995 after an illustrious playing career. He later returned as a coach.
A member of the Dynamos side that reached the 1998 CAF Champions League final, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the predicament of former players was a red flag for local football.
“Dynamos achieved a lot by reaching the CAF Champions League final (in 1998), and that is something that deserves recognition, particularly in Zimbabwean football.
“Those of us who contributed to that historic achievement in 1998 also deserve to be acknowledged.
“Some former players are going through very difficult situations. Many are struggling to meet their daily needs, while others cannot even afford medication.”
Chiweshe’s plight has prompted proposals for a former players’ welfare fund, affordable medical insurance and pension schemes supported by clubs, ZIFA, the Premier Soccer League and corporate partners.
Former players could also be incorporated into coaching, scouting, administration, schools and grassroots development programmes.
“We need a proper plan for former players,” the former Dynamos player said.
“Recognition should not end with celebrating what they achieved on the field, there must also be discussions about their welfare and what they can do after football.
“Retirement can bring a great deal of stress and depression, especially when players have nothing meaningful to do or no reliable source of income.”
He added:
“There is always something former players can contribute to the game.
“Unfortunately, we often neglect the very people who helped build Zimbabwean football.”
He also said it was sad to see a number of musicians in Zimbabwe being recognised and getting some financial rewards ahead of former footballers who used to entertain fans in the 1980s, 90s and 2000s.
“My heart bleeds when I read from the UK that some musicians are being given cars and huge amounts of money (which I think is not bad) ahead of ex-footballers or Zimbabwean football legends.
“They also need that same recognition because I think they contributed a lot in the development of football in Zimbabwe.”
