By Benedict Tembo
GOALKEEPER Rabson Mcheleng’anga’s nine-year stint with Naspa Stars Football Club has ended following the non-renewal of his contract by the pensioners.
Mcheleng’anga, 39, confirmed today that Napsa management has informed him about the decision not to retain his services, effectively ending his illustrious playing career.
With the curtains drawn on him at Napsa aka Tangala, the goalkeeper who will look back at his time the Pensioners with pride, is now considering going into coaching.
In a statement, Naspa announced the departure of Mcheleng’anga who joined the club in 2016 from 13-time league champions Nkana.
“It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that we bid farewell to our long-time goalkeeper, Rabson Mchelenganga. After a remarkable stint with Napsa Stars, Rabson’s contract has come to an end and will not be renewed. We want to take this opportunity to thank Rabson for his dedication, hard work, and commitment to the team,” the statement reads.
Napsa acknowledge that Mcheleng’anga has been an integral part of the squad and has made countless memorable saves that will forever be etched in their minds.
“Rabson’s contributions to Napsa Stars go beyond his impressive goalkeeping skills. He has been a true leader on and off the pitch, inspiring his teammates with his passion, work ethic, and kindness. We will deeply miss his presence in the dressing room and on the pitch, but we are also excited to see what the future holds for him,” the statement said.
Napsa have wished Mcheleng’anga the best in his future endeavors and hope that his next chapter is filled with success and happiness.
“Thank you, Rabson, for being an amazing teammate and for giving your all to the team. You will always be a part of the Napsa Stars family,” the statement added.
As a member of the golden generation of Chiparamba Great Eagles Academy, Mcheleng’anga made his debut appearance in the MTN Super League with Power Dynamos where he played for six years.
After Power, he trekked to Chingola where he joined Nchanga Rangers and spent three years at Nchanga Stadium before relocating back to Kitwe to join Nkana.
He moved back to the capital city and settled with Napsa where among other achievements including playing in the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.
And Napsa have also announced the departure of five other players.
𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐨𝐢𝐬𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐤𝐨 has joined Namibian Premiership side Eeshoke Chula Chula FC on a six-month loan while Nigerian forward 𝐍𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐦 𝐀𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢 has parted ways with the club by mutual consent.
𝐁𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐲𝐨𝐦𝐚 has been loaned to Lusaka Division one side Makeni All Stars for six months, with 𝐄𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐌𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐳𝐚 and 𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐚 𝐍𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐢 leaving the club following the expiration of their contracts.
