Story by Mthokozisi Dube
THE second leg of the goalkeepers’ coaching clinic facilitated by German coach David Wetzel is now in Bulawayo following a similar initiative in Harare.
More than 40 goalkeepers’ coaches are in attendance.
Highlanders’ goal-minder Ariel Sibanda graciously grabbed the opportunity to prepare for life after football.
“I am grateful to Highlanders for giving me this opportunity. Playing as a goalkeeper does not give one the licence to be a goalkeepers coach. We are getting new techniques.”
The clinic also drew the attention of yesteryear goalkeepers who acknowledged the need to move with the ever-evolving trends.
“Football is ever-changing, so we need to move with times by getting new skills and goalkeeping methods,” former Hwange goalkeeper, Weekly Mwale said.
German coach David Wetzel, a holder of a UEFA badge, contends after the clinic the football terrain will change for the better.
“The attendance is quite impressive. The coaches are showing the zeal to learn and I am sure the country stands to benefit.”
More than 80 coaches have participated in the skills development clinic and ZIFA Technical Development Committee Vice Chairperson Nhlanhla Dube says this is part of a strategy by the newly elected ZIFA committee to introduce a new philosophy of football development.
“We are happy to witness this development which resonates well with the ZIFA exco development strategy of football. Football development entails capacitating everyone involved in the sport,” Dube said.
Staff development remains a cornerstone of the ZIFA exco and the next clinic will target administrators.
