Akim Phiri, popularly known as Coach Bance, has steadily built a reputation as a skilled and qualified football coach, rising through the ranks under the guidance of some of Zimbabwe’s top football mentors.
Related Stories
Phiri attributes much of his development to the influence of seasoned coaches he worked with early in his career. “I was under Coach Lindiew, the head coach of FC Platinum Royals, Coach Brighton Pamhirwa, who owns Pams Academy, and Coach Arnold Jani, who coaches Bikita Minerals,” Phiri said, highlighting the valuable experience he gained from these leaders in Zimbabwean football.
Although Phiri’s playing career was cut short due to a knee injury, he quickly shifted his focus to coaching, demonstrating his talent from the sidelines. He began his coaching journey at Falcon Academy, where he led the team between 2015 and 2017, before moving to Pams Academy from 2018 to 2020. His efforts were recognized when he guided his team to victory in the 2016 ZIFA tournament, an achievement that earned him accolades in the local football community.
In 2022, Phiri took his coaching expertise to the collegiate level, managing MSU Zvishavane in Division 2, where he continued to hone his skills and influence young players.
Phiri’s journey from assistant coach to a respected figure in Zimbabwean football reflects his dedication, resilience, and the impact of mentorship in shaping successful careers
Leave Comments