Abel Ndooka
Lovemore Dube
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE ZPC (Hwange) Workers Committee has moved quickly to seek clarity on whether the winners of the ZIFA Southern Region League title will play in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
Last year, the team broke a 35-year jinx when they finished at the top of the standings.
On December 24, Xolani Nyoni, who is the workers’ committee chairman, and his secretary, Mary Dube, wrote to the company’s executive chairman, Sydney Gata, over the issue.
They wanted clarity following reports that FIFA Club Licensing rules would not allow ZPC (Hwange) to play in the Premiership since there is already another club from the group -ZPC Kariba.
“As you are aware, our beloved team has faced significant hurdles, particularly surrounding FIFA Article 18 of the FIFA Club Licensing Regulations.
“This regulation has created barriers that are preventing our team from registering and participating in the PSL. We believe that with your esteemed support, we can legally resolve this impasse and enable our young stars to showcase their talents in the 2025 season.
“For 34 long years, our community has poured its heart and soul into supporting ZPC Hwange Football Club. We have faced failures, but we have never given up. Our team is not just a group of players.
“It represents hope, pride, entertainment and recreation for Zesa, ZPC and Hwange community. The team’s existence is integral to our collective identity and spirit,” said the workers in their letter.
For years sport, especially football, has been the number one entertainment activity in the mining and power producing town.
The thermal power station in the coal mining town has sponsored ZPC (Hwange).
“We humbly request your assistance in finding a way, through legal channels, to allow our team to compete in the PSL, for at least one season.
“This opportunity would allow us to demonstrate just how important this team is to us and how it deeply resonates within our community,” said the workers.
Gata congratulated the team for winning promotion.
“I have learnt with utmost pride the promotion of ZPC Hwange Football Club into the Premier Soccer League after many years of commitment and dedication to the sport.
“The team exemplifies the true Zesa fighting spirit and we hope it will continue to showcase their talents and bring pride to both Zesa and the nation.
“I kindly request that you engage all relevant stakeholders to explore ways to support the team’s aspirations,” wrote Gata in his letter to the legal department.
Online Reporter
