FC Platinum chairman Dumisani Sisale unveils manifesto ahead of PSL elections

ZVISHAVANE – FC Platinum chairman Dumisani Sisale last week officially launched his manifesto as he vies for the position of Chairman of the Premier Soccer League (ZPSL), ahead of the elections set for Friday.

Sisale will contest the PSL chairmanship against Isiah Mupfurutsa (Simba Bhora), Masimba Chihohwa (Manica Diamonds) and Leonard Musariri (Ngezi Platinum Stars).

Below is Sisale’s manifesto

MANIFESTO FOR ZPSL CHAIRMANSHIP

Candidate: Dumisani Sisale
Position: Chairman, Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (ZPSL)
Motto: “Reignite the Game – Reform. Empower. Excel.”

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

I, Dumisani Sisale, humbly present my candidacy for the position of Chairman of the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League. I was groomed in a system where my club won 4 championship titles in the PSL and a prize for discipline.

My inspiration is rooted in a deep passion for football, a commitment to good governance, and the need to modernize our league to meet international standards. I seek to lead a transformation that benefits clubs, players, fans, sponsors, and the nation at large.

VISION

To transform the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League into a commercially viable, professionally run, and globally respected football league by enhancing competitiveness, promoting youth development, ensuring financial transparency, and embracing innovation.

MISSION

To promote professional football in Zimbabwe through transparent governance, youth development, strategic commercialization, and community engagement.

STRATEGIC PILLARS OF THE MANIFESTO

Commercialization and Revenue Growth

• Building and implementing a balanced commercial structure that promotes stability, growth and resilience through a strategy based on innovation, visibility, and inclusivity.
• Secure and Expand TV Broadcast Rights, including digital streaming.
• Partnerships with national broadcasters and regional networks for live match coverage.
• Launching or licensing digital streaming platforms to reach diaspora and tech-savvy audiences.
• Implementation of value-added content to boost viewer engagement and monetization.
• Fair revenue-sharing agreements with clubs to incentivize quality and compliance.

League Rebranding

• Turning the PSL into a cash positive entity to implement its projects including construction of the offices and accompanying infrastructure
• Full brand revamp, visual identity, and messaging.
• Consolidate relationship with current sponsors
• Bring on board additional tailored sponsorship packages catering for different
  investment levels.
• Engagement of key sectors as long-term strategic partners.
• Offering branding opportunities across digital, in-stadium, and broadcast platforms.

Pricing Strategy

• Introducing and implementing pricing strategies for match attendance that balance profitability and competitiveness
• Negotiate for periodic cash disbursements to clubs to increase competitiveness and cash flows
• Bring in more partners to sponsor end of season awards

Youth Development Policy

• Mandatory U19 Registration: Compel clubs to register at least 5 Under-19 players for their first team roaster.
• Compliance Monitoring: Registration is reviewed and verified by the league’s technical committee.
• Mandatory Minutes Rule: Clubs to accumulate about 2500 minutes of playing time for Under-19 players over the league season.
• Incentives for Compliance and Excellence: Clubs exceeding required minutes or debuting multiple U19s may receive development bonuses, priority in youth sponsorship and marketing campaigns, and league recognition awards.

Good Governance and Transparency

• Implement Open and Audited Financial Systems for the PSL Office.
• Introduce Club Licensing Systems Aligned with CAF/FIFA Standards.
• Enhances Accountability and Representation through Club Participation in Decisions.
• Improves Club Support and League Competitiveness.

Standardised Medical, Legal, and Welfare Policies

• Establishes a unified framework for player and staff medical care, legal protection, and welfare.
• Enforced through club audits and capacity-building workshops.

Invest in Stadium Infrastructure through Strategic Partnerships

• Forms partnerships with local authorities, the Ministry of Sports, and private investors to rehabilitate and modernize stadiums.
• Focus areas include pitch quality, lighting, seating, and facilities.
• Encourage home-stadium ownership or long-term lease models to foster community identity.

Gender Equality Policies

• Establish clear policies promoting gender equality within the league.

Partnerships with National and Regional Bodies

• Collaborate with the national football association, government agencies, NGOs, and regional football bodies to coordinate efforts and share resources.

IMMEDIATE GOALS (FIRST 12 MONTHS)

• Secure National Broadcast Partner to increase league visibility and reach.
• Host ZPSL Indaba to foster collaboration and align league priorities.
• Launch Youth Development Charter to promote and support youth talent development across all clubs.

IMPACT GOALS BY YEAR 2

• 100% of Teams with Active Youth Academies to establish a sustainable talent pipeline.
• League Broadcast in at least 3 Regional Markets to boost brand visibility and attract cross-border sponsorships.
• Over 20% of Minutes Played by U19 Players Across the League to accelerate player development.
• Improved League Competitiveness and Viewership to ensure a balanced, engaging, and unpredictable season.