By Mubukwanu Kaingu
Ex-Chipolopolo coach Patrick Phiri has paid tribute to the late Lusaka Dynamos supremo Hanif Adams for believing in him as a coach which subsequently led to him being poached by Nkana.
Hanif, 70, died in Lusaka on September 8 after an illness, and for over four decades, he set about building Dynamos into a successful conveyor belt of talent that became Chipolopolo’s mainstay.
He was put to rest on September 8 in Lusaka in accordance with Islamic rites.
Phiri left a youthful and promising Dynamos project in 1997 when Nkana snatched him to revive the Kitwe giants’ fortunes much to Hanif’s disappointment.
“I joined Lusaka Dynamos whilst I was serving in the military,” Phiri said.
“When I retired as a soldier, I saw that it was not sustainable to coach Dynamo’s on a full-time basis.
“The only team at that time which I could comfortably coach was Nkana.
“Nkana is my childhood Club. So I trekked back to Nkana. And was no surprise that when I took over at Nkana the progress was a rollercoaster. The team went from strength to strength.”
Phiri went on to lead Nkana to second place in 1998 and the championship the following season.
“Of course, Mr. Adams was upset that I left colourful Dynamos. He had wanted me to stay but as earlier said logistics could not allow,” Phiri said.
Phiri said he will forever be grateful for Hanif’s contribution to his growth as a coach.
“Indeed a very big loss, the passing of Mr Adams. May his soul rest in peace. Our thoughts are with his family,” Phiri said.
“Mr Adams was at one time the biggest giant in Zambian football. The most characteristic leader in living memory.
“He lived such a unique life and lifestyle. He was ever light years ahead of everyone.
“You can’t believe a person like Hanif could die.”
