Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
PREMIER Soccer League newcomers Hunters FC have confirmed Marondera as their home base for the upcoming season, dismissing speculation over a possible relocation and change of ownership ahead of their top-flight debut.
Club owner Andrew Gore said Hunters have entered a partnership to ease the financial burden of competing in the Premier Soccer League, stressing that neither the club’s name nor its home base has changed.
For weeks, rumors had circulated suggesting the team had been sold and would relocate. Gore moved to set the record straight, assuring supporters that Marondera remains the club’s home.
“It is expensive to finance football teams, hence the move to look for partners to assist the team. I want to assure football fans that Marondera will continue to host Hunters FC,” Gore said.
“I am, however, doubtful that the team will play the first matches of the league at home as the ground needs to be upgraded to meet PSL standards. There are changes to the team management, but we did not sell the team. The partners have taken over the selection of the coaches. We are also looking forward to establishing a Hunters Football Club academy to ensure a wide player base.”
Hunters may be forced to play early home fixtures away from Rudhaka Stadium, which still requires refurbishment to meet league requirements.
The Marondera Town Council has confirmed plans to support the stadium upgrade, although works are yet to begin.
“We engaged residents’ representatives and the Hunters FC management and agreed that we are going to support the renovation of Rudhaka Stadium,” said Marondera Mayor Chengetai Murowa.
“We introduced a sports levy to help develop sporting facilities. We want to help Hunters FC refurbish Rudhaka Stadium. We do not want Hunters to play its matches outside Marondera.”
With the PSL season fast approaching and construction still pending, concerns persist among local football stakeholders.
“We were looking forward to Rudhaka Stadium hosting Premier Soccer League matches,” said former Warriors goalkeeper Ernest Chirambadare.
“Social media reports indicated that the team was sold, and we are worried that there is little progress on renovating the stadium.”
Hunters supporters echoed the sentiment, welcoming promotion but urging authorities to fast-track the upgrade so top-flight football can return to the town.
The club and local authorities say the refurbishment of Rudhaka Stadium will ultimately put speculation to rest as Marondera prepares for its first taste of Premier Soccer League football.
