‘Your Legacy Will Live On’: D1 Jame West Former Coach Says on Mapeza Departure

n By Delicious Mathuthu n nn n Zvishavane - “Coach, it’s hard to see you go, but I’m excited for the new chapter ahead,” wrote Ashel Gutu, former Jame West FC coach, in an emotional tribute that captures the prevailing mood across the Zimba

Jan 21, 2026 - 15:17

By Delicious Mathuthu

Zvishavane - “Coach, it’s hard to see you go, but I’m excited for the new chapter ahead,” wrote Ashel Gutu, former Jame West FC coach, in an emotional tribute that captures the prevailing mood across the Zimbabwean football as seasoned coach, Norman Mapeza closed a decade-long reign at FC Platinum.

Gutu, who once worked within the FC Platinum structures before moving to Mberengwa based side, Jame West FC, which he oversaw the club's promotion from ZIFA Midlands Region Division 2A League to the Central Region Soccer League, and later stepping away, praised the departing tactician in words that have resonate beyond Zvishavane.

“Your dedication, passion and leadership have inspired us all. You’ve built a strong team, and your legacy will live on through the countless lives you’ve touched.

"Your tactical genius, motivational words and unwavering support have made a lasting impact on FC Platinum players and staff," Gutu wrote.

The tribute continued: “I’m grateful for the times we shared at FC Platso (Platinum), the wins we celebrated and the lessons we learned.You’ll be deeply missed, but I know your next team will benefit from your expertise and enthusiasm.

"Keep in touch, stay in the game, and know that you’ll always have a friend and fellow coach cheering you on. Best wishes for your next adventure!” Wrote Gutu.

The heartfelt message came hours after Mapeza, 54, officially parted ways with the miners’ club following Sunday’s 0-0 draw against Dynamos at Rufaro Stadium in Harare over the weekend, his 360th and final match in charge of the side.

The split ends one of the most successful eras in Zimbabwean club history.Since taking over in August 2014, Mapeza delivered three Premier Soccer League titles (2017, 2018, 2021), three Castle Challenge Cups, and guided FC Platinum to two CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals.

He turned a modest Zvishavane outfit into a continental force while developing a conveyor belt of talent that fed both club and country.

Club sources described the separation as amicable, though prolonged contract negotiations and recent African disappointments are understood to have played a part.

Mapeza is already being linked with ambitious newly promoted Kwekwe based side, Hardrock FC.

Meanwhile, currently based in Zvishavane and after departing from Jame West, Gutu has returned to grassroots coaching, working with the under-15 and under-17 teams at Zvavashe Secondary School while hoping for senior opportunities in the 2026 football season.

He also welcomed the Zimbabwe Football Association’s (ZIFA) increased coaching courses, saying they will strengthen the profession nationwide from the grassroots.