Former football referee and CAF referees’ instructor, Sabelo Maphosa, is eager to bring her extensive experience in football to the ZIFA board. With over two decades in the sport, Maphosa is confident that her background in officiating and leadership will enable her to contribute to the growth and development of Zimbabwean football.

Maphosa’s journey in football began in 1986 when she started refereeing and progressed to the position of match commissioner. She is now a CAF-certified referees’ instructor, having gained invaluable knowledge and experience along the way. “I have been involved in football for over 20 years and I believe I can offer a lot to the development of the game in Zimbabwe,” she said.

A key area Maphosa is passionate about is addressing the lack of Zimbabwean referees in international assignments. She believes this issue needs urgent attention, highlighting that poor officiating has negative effects on the sport, including disappointing sponsors and teams. “We need officials who maintain high standards and uphold the rules of the game, free from external influences. The decisions of referees should be final, and good officiating can be achieved by focusing on qualified officials starting at grassroots levels, such as NAPH and NASH,” she explained.

The ZIFA board will elect six members to help shape the future of Zimbabwean football, and Maphosa is eager to play her part in the nation’s football renaissance.