FAZ President Welcomes Coach Nora Hauptle to the Copper Queens

06.01.2025 | Football DNA ⚽️

The FAZ President has extended a warm welcome to Nora Hauptle, the newly appointed head coach of the Zambia Women’s National Team. In his address, the president acknowledged Hauptle’s arrival as a critical step toward the continued development of the Copper Queens and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the team successfully.

He revealed that Hauptle’s appointment faced challenges, including media speculation that nearly derailed the process. However, he commended all parties for their professionalism and perseverance in securing the deal. Hauptle will take over from Bruce Mwape, who, the president noted, has laid a solid foundation for the team since his appointment in 2018.

The FAZ president expressed gratitude to Mwape for his contributions, which include guiding the Copper Queens to multiple milestones. Mwape will now transition into an advisory role with the junior teams and is set to undergo advanced coaching training in Morocco to obtain a CAF Pro License.

On broader football matters, the president outlined a packed calendar for 2025, beginning with the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa. He highlighted ongoing preparations under Coach Wedson Nyirenda, including scheduled friendlies ahead of the tournament, with the draw set for January 15 in Nairobi, Kenya.

The president also touched on other international engagements, such as the FIFA World Cup qualifiers for the under-17 and under-20 women’s teams, and the Africa Cup of Nations tournaments for the under-17 and under-20 boys.

Addressing domestic football, the president emphasized the importance of improving league performance to regain Zambia’s four CAF slots in continental competitions. He also stressed the need for quality officiating and urged all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the Laws of the Game to minimize disputes.

The president concluded by reiterating the FAZ’s long-term goal of empowering local coaches through world-class training to eventually manage all national teams. He assured Hauptle of the association’s full support and encouraged all stakeholders to contribute to the continued growth of Zambian football.