Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
ZIFA Southern Region Division One side ZPC Hwange’s secretary Mehluli Thebe says they are more than eager to give a flying start to the season, as all their players are in good shape.
Thebe said despite the postponement of the league, which was supposed to start this weekend, they remained resolute in preparing for this year’s campaign.
“All is well in our camp and we are pleased to announce that we have assembled a pool of players who we trust will deliver the expected results.
“The start of the league was brought forward but, that could work in our favour as the team has some added time to condition stronger,” said Thebe.
The Mabelo Njekwa coached ZPC Hwange have in their books a team of 43 players, with most being drawn from the local community.
Assisting Njekwa is Mthandazo Nkala and Brighton Siziba. Training the goalkeepers is Brighton Kekala. Bonamali Bwanali trades as the fitness trainer.
In a show of their intent to give other teams a run for their money, the team, last month signed experienced players in midfielder Eddy Nkulungo and striker Courage Sibanda.
As part of their junior development, ZPC Hwange brought in 17-year-old Tanatswa Nyamburi and Ashley Tembo (19) who are both from the coal mining town.
There was an agreement within the team’s executive that the best way for the team to serve the community, was to look for players from areas in and around Hwange.
Chairman Farai Mahachi said in their immediate term, the focus was on supporting budding talent in the coal mining town.
“Our duty is to support the community which our company serves. We aim at identifying young players with potential and we will continue doing that this season,” he said.
The club in the 1980s and 1990s attracted the best local talent who used ZPC (Hwange) as a stepping stone to Hwange FC after graduating from the junior ranks.
-@NkosieLegend
Online Reporter