Just six years ago, Hardrock Football was an unknown entity, a name that only evoked images of the Kwekwe landscape.
Perhaps, the only known “hard rock” was basalt, a dark, fine-grained igneous rock common in Zimbabwe — only until one man entered the football fray to change the whole narrative.
Formed in 2019 by Kwekwe-based mining tycoon Shepherd ‘Magodora’ Chahwanda, Hardrock Football Club has shaken up the PSL football market, leaving fans eager to see what they have to offer.
When they tip-toed onto the Central Region Soccer League stage last season, they were in Sheasham FC’s shadows, but they managed to step out and carve their own path into the PSL.
Ahead of their PSL debut, the Kasongo Golden Boys’ transfer moves have sent rivals a warning. Their season opener at home against 2025 champions, Scottland FC, has fans buzzing.
First, they lured Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu, fresh from his Chibuku Super Cup triumph with Dynamos FC. Kaindu saved Dynamos from relegation, and his heroics have left Hardrock FC faithfuls optimistic about what he will offer them in their maiden season.
Notably, they signed a litany of stars, including 2025 PSL Soccer Star of the Year and Golden Boot winner, Washington Navaya. Whispers of Hardrock FC’s ambitious transfer business sent fans into a frenzy.
Navaya joined several high-profile names, including national team goalkeeper Martin Mapisa. But it’s goal machine Wilfred Madzungu, the Central Region Soccer League Soccer Star, who ignited so much excitement.
Zambian Andrew Phiri’s arrival from Singida Stars of Tanzania also adds firepower, while Simba Bhora trio Junior Makunike, Boyd Makuture, and Donald Mudadi bring stability and energy.
Oncemore Uriri, Edward Musena, Prince Gwetu, Nigel Matinha, and Shelton Sibanda rounded out the squad. Key retentions like seasoned defender Munyaradzi Diro Nyenye, Lenox Mucheto, and Alpha Dube are meant to ensure stability.
It goes without saying that as Hardrock FC prepares for their PSL debut, rivals are trembling. And their matchday one fixture against Scottland will be used as a measure of their pedigree.
