The Sunday News
Ngqwele Dube, Sports Correspondent
SOUTHERN Region women clubs are fretting over Covid-19 funds they were allocated which they feel is a pittance in comparison to what their Super League counterparts received.
The second-tier teams were awarded $29 000 each after the region received $414 000, an amount similar to what Super League clubs got.
Clubs said the difference was just too wide and the amount they were awarded would not meet much of their needs.
“We don’t know how they calculated and allocated us that amount but it seems there was too much focus on the Super League clubs while the lower clubs were not given much thought.
“With 30 players, we won’t even be able to give them $1 000 each but again there are other needs that have to be met in administration,” said an official who declined to be identified for fear of victimisation.
Another official said while they understood they would not receive the same amount as Super League clubs it was imperative, they get “fair” funding.
“Super League clubs deserve more because of their stature and costs they face but the difference between $414 000 and $29 000 is just too much. We won’t do much with those funds.
“There has been much talk about development but if you focus on the top what will come out of the grassroots part of the women’s game?”
However, Southern Region vice-chairperson, Catherine Mavada said beggars are not choosers. She said actually most clubs were happy with what they got.
“As a person I would appreciate anything that comes through in such a scenario. Remember this is money being given to us. Even if it was a dollar, I would just take it and be appreciative.
“Maybe clubs expected to be given in United States dollars but that was not the case. But I believe most clubs are happy they got something and I am sure they will put it to good use,” she said.
Fifa released US$500 000 in Covid-19 relief funds towards women football in each of their associations.
Zifa have been at pains to explain the formula used to divide the Covid-19 relief funds they got from the world football governing body with some affiliates grumbling over the amounts they have been allocated.
