*Coach poisoned over player selection* https://thevoiceonlinenews.com/42gz ___________________________________ `June 15, 2025` ___________________________________ > *Follow The Voice Online News WhatsApp channel:* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaPRQqTHrDZdGRK5yH43 ___________________________________ > *Share The Voice Online News WhatsApp group link:* https://chat.whatsapp.com/DjU5F7Goh3M6M4XSkg81Gx ___________________________________ > *To advertise with The Voice Online News, talk to us here:* https://wa.me/message/PLR6ANGW2RX4I1 ___________________________________ TAKAENDESA Valentine Mukwashi – the coach of Pacific Storm Eastern Region Division One side, Tongogara United FC – considers himself fortunate to be alive after suffering a prolonged and severe bout of vomiting for over 12 hours recently. This followed a suspected poisoning incident allegedly orchestrated by a faction of the club’s supporters from Tongogara Refugee Settlement who were reportedly dissatisfied with his team selection decisions. Contacted for a comment, Tongogara United FC patron, Johane Mhlanga, who is also the refugee settlement administrator, said: “I can confirm that Tongogara United Football Club veteran gaffer, Valentine Takaendesa Mukwashi who was under the cold for a week is back on duty. The club and its legion of supporters are excited that the coach is back rejuvenated and raring to go. His return is a morale booster to the players ahead of their encounter against Manica Diamonds Under-19 FC in Mutare. As the Settlement administration, we are excited that the coach is back to guide the team against Manica Diamonds on Friday, and FC Mazodze on June 18, 2025. These matches are critical for TUFC in our efforts to consolidate our quest for Premier League promotion.” Last year, Tongogara United FC achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first-ever refugee team to qualify for the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League Division One. Tongogara FC is a unique club, comprising mainly refugees from various conflict-ridden countries residing at Tongogara Refugee Settlement in Chipinge South Constituency, as well as some local players from the surrounding rural host communities. As with many clubs featuring players from diverse backgrounds, team selection has been a contentious issue within the refugee settlement. Allegations have surfaced regarding perceived favouritism towards players from specific countries over others. Mukwashi corroborated reports of his ordeal, confirming that he had vomited for over 12 hours, and received medical attention at three centres during his recovery. “I was vomiting from 3am until 4.30pm on Sunday. I went to the local clinic, and was referred to Chipinge District Hospital, where I was admitted. I was later transferred to Triangle Hospital and discharged last Friday. Thankfully, I am now fit, and will be resuming work this week,” said Mukwashi. However, the Tongogara FC coach emphasised that he would remain impartial in his team selection, undeterred by the malicious tactics employed off the field. “I am fair, and my selections are based on performance. If someone excels during training, they will likely play well on Saturday or Sunday. Even if I am poisoned 40 times – if that is what happened – I will remain fair. “I won’t change my approach. Perhaps, I might leave after the first half of the season, but for now, I will persevere. No one can dictate what I do; I won’t be swayed by external pressures,” he said. Tongogara United FC’s existence is a testament to the club’s inclusive approach, which aligns with its mission to promote social cohesion and local integration. The club’s composition – featuring both refugees and locals – embodies this vision. It also includes members from the host communities. By bringing together refugees and host community members, the club fosters mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration, helping to bridge cultural divides and create a more unified environment within the Tongogara Refugee Settlement Meanwhile, the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League’s MatchDay Seven has brought some exciting developments. FC Hunters are currently leading with 19 points, just one point ahead of Tenax CS FC, who have played one match less. What is impressive is FC Hunters’ attacking prowess, having scored 29 goals with a goal difference of plus 19. The unbeaten teams in the league so far include FC Hunters, Tenax CSFC, Rusitu Tigers, and Masvingo United. Notably, Rusitu Tigers and Masvingo United have the best defensive record, with neither team conceding a goal yet. On the other end of the spectrum, teams like Manica Diamonds Under-19, Chivhu FC, and Great Zimbabwe are struggling to record their first win. Unfortunately, Chivhu FC and Manica Diamonds have the worst defensive record, having conceded 15 goals each. – _*ManicaPost*_