From golden promise to Shattered dreams

Patience Muchemwa- Senior Reporter

A vibrant dream, painted with the hues of international ambition, has faded to a monochrome tale of discord in Zimbabwean handball. What began as the "Vision 2024" program, a beacon of hope aimed at propelling the national team to global recognition, has collapsed amidst a storm of accusations and broken agreements.

Rolf Haussener, a Swiss coach with a heart full of zeal, arrived in Zimbabwe with a clear, independent blueprint. He envisioned a handball revolution, fueled by his passion and bolstered by sponsorships from his homeland. "The vision was not part of the Federation; it was a stand-alone program," Haussener insists, his voice tinged with disappointment. He painted a picture of meticulously sourced funding and a roadmap to success. However, this canvas quickly became marred by conflict.

The Zimbabwe Handball Federation, while initially welcoming Haussener's initiative, sought to integrate it into their framework. The crux of the issue? Control over the financial resources. "They wanted me to surrender all the donations into their hands, then they would distribute to the vision program," Haussener alleges, his tone sharp. He refused, a decision that ignited a firestorm of disagreement.

The Federation's attempt to formalize the relationship through a contract became the program's undoing. Haussener, seeking security and a commitment to his long-term vision, demanded a contract that guaranteed his role until 2024. The Federation's counteroffer, laced with a clause allowing for his immediate dismissal, was a bridge too far.

"The players were asked to choose between me and the Federation, and they were left in between," Haussener laments, his voice heavy with concern for the athletes caught in the crossfire. He further claims that a conspiracy was hatched against him, involving allegations and even police intervention, a move he perceived as a blatant attempt to oust him.

Edson Chirowodza, ZHF's Secretary General, offers a contrasting narrative. "The Vision 2024 program started very well, and we had a very good working relationship with Rolf Haussener as our coach," he concedes. However, he attributes the program's downfall to a fundamental lack of initial formal agreement. "There was no formal or written document or agreement in terms of the MOU with the coach. Later, we then came up with a contract, but he did not agree to the terms, which actually, I’m sure, led to the breakaway," Chirowodza explains.

He vehemently denies any misuse of equipment, asserting that all donations were properly distributed and utilised. "The equipment that Haussener brought to the Federation was not abused in any way. It was not even taken by the board members or anyone," he clarifies, emphasizing the continued use of the equipment by national teams.

The vibrant tapestry of Vision 2024, once shimmering with promise, now lies in tatters. Both parties acknowledge the program's positive beginnings, yet the bitter fallout over control, finances, and contractual terms has left a deep chasm.

Haussener feels his vision was stifled, while the Federation maintains they acted in the best interest of the sport. The players, caught in the middle, are left to navigate a landscape marred by division.