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| Columns |
| Sport On |
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by
Gracian Tukula, 02 October 2004
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13:26:18
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Keeping my excitement
If I am to believe press reports that came out earlier in the week, there was a buzz of excitement within the soccer fraternity following assurances by former president Bakili Muluzi, through one Henry Moyo, that he would continue to sponsor the country’s Super League next season.
I regard myself as a stakeholder in soccer but I don’t think I am excited and, believe you me, it’s nothing personal. In fact, I try never to be personal in this column. I am not excited because the pledge was about doubling the sponsorship package and I don’t remember that was said this time.
But even that is taking matters too far. Why should we be talking about next season as if we are done with the business of the current season? Is the prize money for the performers of this season ready? What is really behind the postponements of the final game between Bakili Bullets and MTL Wanderers? Remember Kamuzu Cup?
So, I will keep my excitement for the day when I see Bullets and other teams getting bank-certified cheques for their achievements this season and when the agreement for next season is legally sealed. You cannot afford to look at the matter oblivious of what else is happening around us, if you know what I mean.
Again that is only part of a bigger story. Just what future does soccer have in Malawi? If, as I fear, the game loses its only major sponsor, what else will our teams have to fight for? Are we not heading for a situation where the national team will be drawing players from social clubs?
Even if the current sponsorship were retained, what are Fam and other stakeholders doing if only to complement the efforts of the former head of state to get the game going? Can’t we all see we are already in a crisis?
Soccer is of such social importance to Malawians that killing the game would affect many souls who depend on it in one way or another. Just what will the players, most of whom survive on the sport, be doing? What will the thousands of people who can’t wait for the next Saturday to watch the game turn to?
Not everyone is as fortunate as some of us who have access to the screen and are able to watch the game as it is played elsewhere. Not many can do what I did, transferring the passion I had for Wanderers to Liverpool. Many patriots want to see their own stars on the big stage.
While on Liverpool, I was surprised with a message I received earlier in the week where one Manchester United fan was questioning why I admire Arsenal’s current play when I am a Liverpool fan. Now, now, I never thought that when you’re a fan of one club you cannot see positives in others. But we never stop learning, do we?
I, for one, try to be real. For example, I know that Liverpool are playing exciting football at Anfield but struggling on the road. I also know that Manchester United are themselves coming back and will make the fight for honours this season one of the most exciting. That does not make me less of a Liverpool fan than anyone.
Feedback: atukula@hotmail.com or gtukula@yahoo.co.uk
cellphone: (265) (0) 9 958 696 or (265) (0) 8 825 263
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