After more than two decades of unwavering dedication to football, Theresa Maguraushe, the interim chairperson of the Zimbabwe Women Premier Soccer League (ZWPSL), will not seek re-election.
Her decision marks the end of a significant era, as she chooses to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, aiming to propel women’s football to even greater heights.Maguraushe's illustrious journey in football began in 1998 when she founded and owned the Glen Norah Rangers football club.
Notably, the club nurtured talents like Lillian Masase, a former Mighty Warriors player, who is now part of the Harare City Queens technical department. Maguraushe's deep-seated passion and commitment saw her rise through various leadership roles, including Harare provincial chairperson and Northern Region chairperson. In 2006, her impact broadened significantly when she was appointed the Women's Football Administrator at the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa).
Her influence wasn't limited to Zimbabwe's borders. Last April, she was appointed to represent Zimbabwe on the Cosafa Women's Football committee, where she played a crucial role in crafting the Women's Football Strategic Plan.
This regional involvement underscores her dedication to advancing women's football across southern Africa.
During her tenure at the ZWPSL, Maguraushe meticulously ensured that robust structures were in place, laying a solid foundation for her successors.
Her leadership style was characterised by a profound understanding of the game, an acute eye for detail, and an unyielding passion for promoting women's football.
A significant highlight of Maguraushe's leadership was securing the historic sponsorship deal with the Heart League.
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This groundbreaking partnership with Walter Magaya, president of the Heart Group, was unprecedented in Zimbabwean women's football.
It not only provided much-needed financial support but also dramatically raised the league's profile, attracting new fans and sponsors.
This landmark deal stands as a testament to Maguraushe's tireless efforts to elevate women's football within the country's sporting landscape.As she prepares to exit the stage, Maguraushe reflected on her decision.
“Like a good dancer, I've decided to exit the dance floor, but I'll continue to offer my expertise on a consultative basis,” Maguraushe told The Sports Hub.
“I'm confident that the next generation of leaders will take women's football to new heights, and I'm excited to play a supporting role in their journey."
When asked about her legacy, Maguraushe expressed pride in past achievements and optimism for the future.
“I'm proud of what we've achieved, but I'm even more excited about what's to come. I know that the future of women's football in Zimbabwe is bright, and I'm honoured to have played a part in shaping it.”
Looking ahead, Maguraushe plans to take a "well-deserved break," focusing on family and recharging. However, she emphasided her continued availability to “offer guidance and support to the ZWPSL and the broader football community,” and will continue to represent Zimbabwe in the Cosafa Women's Football committee.
Reflecting on her two decades of service, Maguraushe stated: “I've given my all to football, and it's given me so much in return. I'm grateful for the experiences, the relationships, and the lessons learned. I'll always cherish the memories and the impact we've made on the sport.”
Maguraushe's legacy, built on dedication, hard work, and passion, will undoubtedly endure. As she departs, the Women's football community is now looking towards new leadership.
Chido Chizondo, chairperson of Platinum Royals and Nthokoziso Moyo of Black Rhinos Queens have confirmed their candidacies for the chairmanship post.
Correctional Queens’ chairperson Lewis Muzhara is set to become vice-chairperson, running unopposed.
Other contenders for board member positions, include Mercy Makuwatsine (Harare City administrator and current ZWPSL board member - finance), Shamuyarira James Mupfudza (Black Mambas' chairperson and current ZWPSL board member - development), Talent Chitsaka (Chapungu Queens secretary-general), and Sibusisiwe Rugwevera. Outgoing ZWPSL vice chairperson Dumisani Sithole, board member competitions Arthur Gorejena, and board member marketing Sizolwethu Dube are also not seeking re-election.
