Ugandan Coach Offers 50% Of Salary To Players

Sports has suffered the brunt of the novel coronavirus with the whole world’s sporting activities grinding to a halt as the universe struggles to contain its spread and get life back to normal.

For footballers, the lack of games and training to attend has brought a new fear of losing their wages with some clubs in the continent already asking their players to take a pay cut.

But in Uganda, a kind gesture by one coach in the second-tier has warmed up hearts.

Kitara Football Club head coach Mark Twinamatsiko has pledged to give half of his salary to his players to shield themselves from the possible financial difficulties expected as sports continues to remain halted.

“I have decided to offer 50 percent to the players at Kitara Football Club. No one has forced me but from my own heart. I wish the players to be well in this telling moment,” Twinamatsiko, said in an interview with leading Ugandan website Kawowo Sports.

Lack of training and matches means players will have to do with daily training allowances as well as match bonuses and this will definitely see a reduction in monthly wages.

“Being that I my self tasted hardships in my life, I feel is important to take responsibility and show solidarity to the ones that depend on me. I will make sure all Badoer Investments employees will not get any pay cut during the lock down including Wazito FC and MGTV”

Meanwhile, the owner of Kenyan Premier League side Wazito FC, Ricardo Badoer has said his players and staff will continue receiving their full salaries despite the difficulties currently experienced due to the absence of matches.

The Swede says he has the experience of being jobless and without money and will not let his players go through the same.

Elsewhere, the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has announced a financial support to the country’s leagues to remain afloat during this difficult time. SLFA says it will distribute almost USD67,500 to the Premier League, Division One and Two to help the clubs meet their financial obligations to players.

Source: CAF Online