Million rand lifeline for Thanda

THANKS to an 11th hour bailout from the uThungulu District and uMhlathuze City municipalities, Thanda Royal Zulu were able to avoid having to sell the club at the end of last year because of lack of operating funds that went back as far as October 2014.

But while that rescue act was celebrated at the uMhlathuze Stadium on Wednesday morning, it became clearly evident that the combined R1-million given by the municipalities merely kept the wolf from the door for the moment.

In order to complete the season – one in which they seem destined to gain promotion to the Premier Soccer League – they need further financial support before the February financial year-end.

‘The good news is that both local government entities have made a formal commitment to the club and are committed to safeguarding our future in all of our best interests,’ said Thanda Chairman, Pierre Delvaux.

‘Above that, I am aware that they are in negotiations with their business partners to get support from the corporate sector, which is the vital connection in making us viable and sustainable over the long term.

‘We are approaching the critical part of the season and are on course to gain promotion if we can keep going financially for the last four months of the season, which in March until the end of June.

‘Everyone understands the huge impact this will have in terms of domestic tourism and the thousands who will flock to the City and District to watch the big sides in action.

‘It is wonderful to see the support of the political leadership and their commitment to our District and City in terms of football and the sustainability of having a local professional club.

An investment

The backing of the uThungulu District was forcefully confirmed by Mayor Thembeka Mchunu.

‘We already have a major investment in football in the area, having built the present stadium from Cogta monies received ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

‘Our vision made the stadium, which we project-managed, a reality and right now we have a resolution looking at upgrading the stadium to PSL status.

‘We have adopted Thanda as our own as they carry the aspirations of the youth of our District and are their role models.

‘This is not a donation; it is an investment that will repay us over and over.’

Equally heartening is the R500 000 financial helping hand and the encouragement received from the City of uMhlathuze.

‘We see the value in partnering with Thanda as an investment in tourism, for the entertainment of our public and for the inspiration they give to the youth,’ said City of uMhlathuze Speaker, Mduduzi Mhlongo.

‘At present we are looking at the prospect of making this financial contribution a standing budget item, rather than a once-off donation.

‘Other large cities, such as Maritzburg, have given a major financial injection into their local football clubs, knowing the dividends it pays.

‘We are committed to Thanda’s dream of making the PSL promotion a reality.

’The synergy between ourselves, the District and the business community can make it happen if we share the investment.’