Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze-Zimpapers Sports Hub
HERBERT “Jompano” Maruwa is a man who prefers to do his business silently.
While rising money bags have hogged the limelight with the attractive Castle Lager Premier Soccer League signings, Maruwa chose to stay low-key in Gweru where he is assembling a formidable side.
After impressively saving a sinking TelOne from the chop last season, the telecommunications company run club kept him on board for a fresh season.
Aiming to finish PSL season 2025 in a respectable position, TelOne gave the renowned gaffer room to put together a team that will do duty this season.
During the offseason, he brought in a blend of youngsters and experienced players to create a balanced and competitive team.
Former Dynamos captain Frank Makarati is now with the WiFi Boys, while Bruno Mtigo and Nigel Makumbe joined from Green Fuel and Ngezi Platinum Stars respectively.
Jompano, known for identifying green horns and introducing them to the elite league, will be introducing youngsters Princepal Magondo and Calvin Chigara.
Magondo, a midfielder, is coming in from Black Rhinos where in 2022 he made waves as the league’s youngest player at the age of 15.
Chigara will be joining TelOne from FC Porto Academy.
Last year, Maruwa introduced a 19-year-old Allan Chapinduka who, in six months after making a crack in the league was crowned 2024 PSL “Rookie of the Year”.
“We have brought in experienced players and rookies to make sure we have a balanced team,” said Maruwa.
“We are looking at a team with an average age of between 23 and 24 years.
“However, we need the experience which is why we have Makarati, Mtigo and Makumbe.”
The WiFi Boys who will be using Ascot as their home this season are already in their second week in the preseason. Maruwa is happy with his team’s progress and aims for a positive start to their season.
“I am happy with our preparations so far, everything is on track and currently we are mainly working on aerobic endurance,” he said.
“In the third week we will move on to try and work on the other aspects of the game which are technical.
“We will also play friendlies and make sure we have the right combinations because we have to combine these new guys and the ones who were here last season.”
While the rising money bags Scottland and Simba Bhora hogged the limelight for their pricy signings, Jompano is unfazed.
He believes that his side will prevail despite the underdog tag.
“I think in the 2025 season, which I can see, it’s going to be very competitive. Teams like Simba Bhora are strong in addition to a good coach Joel, Green fuel are also strong with experienced coach Tau. We all know Scottland they have everything needed to succeed in football also have Championship winning Coach Ndiraya.
“You cannot ignore traditional giants Caps, Dynamos and Highlanders as they will always rise to the occasion.
“We also have the likes of FC platinum, Chicken Inn, Ngezi and Manica; they always attract good players. All these other teams are doing their business quietly so it’s going to be a tough season and we are ready for the challenge,” he said.
