This archive report was first published on 25 May 2020.
As the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic, sports leagues and clubs are facing unprecedented challenges. The cancellation of major sporting events has left many clubs struggling financially, with some on the brink of bankruptcy.
However, with lockdown measures being lifted in some countries, there is hope for a return to normalcy. The German Bundesliga has resumed, and other major football leagues are planning to restart next month. South Korea's K-League was the first to set the pace on May 8, but with strict rules in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
Goal celebrations, handshakes, talking, and hugging are banned during matches, and social distancing is emphasized. Disinfection of playing surfaces, including corner flags, cones, goalposts, and balls, is recommended after every training session.
In Kenya, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) suspended all activities following the confirmation of the first COVID-19 case in the country on March 13.
It's essential for clubs to plan for the future and maintain competitiveness. Bandari Football Club, which had two stellar seasons in the 2016/2018 and 2018/2019, must have a sound plan to maintain its competitiveness.
My million-dollar question is whether Bandari has a plan for the future. Have they made contact with scouts for potential signings? Have they come up with a list of players to offload and replace with new recruits? Ideally, that's what we call planning.
Clubs across the globe are doing business, COVID-19 notwithstanding. It's imperative that we also come up with a sound plan for the future. South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns have renewed the contract of their mercurial coach Pitso Mosimane, meaning they are planning for life after coronavirus, so should we.
