Ricky Zililo Senior Sports Reporter
TRIBUTES and messages of condolence poured for soccer legend Paul Gundani, who passed away in Kwekwe at the age of 49 yesterday. Gundani died at a time when he was advocating for and spearheading the fair treatment of players by clubs as secretary-general of the Footballers’ Union of Zimbabwe (Fuz), whose formation he pioneered.
Leading the nation in mourning Gundani, Zifa said football had been robbed of a remarkable warrior.
“We are extremely indignant by the death of Gundani, a formidable member of the Dream Team. It is saddening that we continue to lose these football heroes at a time when the beautiful game desperately needs their services. Paul was a diligent player representative, a vibrant trade unionist and also served football with distinction. Zifa is in mourning with his family, friends and the local football family as everyone grapples with the shocking loss. Rest in peace true football hero,” read a Zifa statement.
Former Dream Team captain Ephraim Chawanda said:
“I wanted to phone him yesterday (Tuesday) to discuss in general about the hype we are involved in on the upcoming Zifa election spectacle, but then I got preoccupied not knowing that it would have been the last robust conversation I would have had with him. “Paul you have deserted us at a time when we seek your wisdom, but who are we to query why?
“You have always looked at situations with a fair mind. Who are we not to have learnt from that? You had the love of Zimbabwe football at heart, can we progress your visions? This is just hurting bro. “Willard (Khumalo)’s wounds haven’t yet healed and now it’s you Paul. I’m deeply hurt my friend, my brother, my colleague, but I know you are with the rest of our Dream Team. Rest in peace.”
Gundani’s passing comes two months after the death of another soccer legend Willard Khumalo. Some of the former Dream Team players that are late include Francis Shonhayi, Mercedes Sibanda, Benjamin Nkonjera, Adam Ndlovu as well as their coach Reinhard Fabisch.
Fuz, which has over 1,000 members, also expressed their shock at the sudden death of their leader. “It’s with deep regret and sorrow that the Fuz announces the sudden and untimely death of secretary-general Paul Gundani. Our deepest condolences go to his family, the football fraternity and Zimbabwe as a whole,” said Fuz in a statement. A heartbroken former AmaZulu, Highlanders and Bantu Rovers’ defender Hebert Dick, who is Fuz’s vice-president, said they had lost a visionary and pillar of strength.
“I’m at a loss for words because we’ve lost a brother, a unionist, unifier and a legend. He served football selflessly and dedicated his time to improving the welfare of players. He has walked his path and the void that Paul has left will certainly be difficult to fill.
“May his dear soul rest in peace and his family find comfort in the living God,” said Dick. Gundani’s former teammate and coach at Ziscosteel, Benedict Moyo, said the former defender led an exemplary life during and after his playing days. Aspiring Zifa president and former national team player Alexander Maseko said: “Football has lost a hero who fought for players, a gentleman of principles.
“Life is short, it’s time to love one another regardless of tribe. My friend Paul may your soul rest in everlasting peace.”