Mkwasa, Ndilime urge active off-season training for players

DAR ES SALAAM: FORMER players, Boniface Mkwasa and Charles Ndilime have cautioned players against being idle during the offseason and instead engage in less competitive matches to maintain their fitness.

The two veterans made the remarks recently in an interview with ‘Daily News,’ in which former Taifa Stars player Boniface Mkwasa insisted it is not a healthy practice for players to stay dormant during the holiday.

He asserted not performing fitness exercises might affect their performance once the league resumes.

“When the season concludes, players should take a break but not stay inactive. It’s crucial for them to participate in light matches to sustain their fitness,” Mkwasa noted.

He also highlighted the off-season as a critical period for clubs to assess their performance and strategise for the upcoming season.

“During this time, club management should evaluate areas that need improvement from the previous season to enhance competitiveness,” Mkwasa added.

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Mkwasa further urged the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) to consider friendly fixtures that accommodate longdistance travel challenges across the country.

“Given Tanzania’s vast geography and transportation obstacles, fixtures should be planned with these factors in mind,” he noted.

Charles Ndilime, former Mtibwa Sugar midfielder, echoed the sentiments, emphasising the importance of players maintaining physical conditioning during their holidays.

“Players should continue exercising to stay fit. Gyms are readily available for them to utilise and they should avoid behaviours like excessive relaxation, alcohol consumption, or smoking,” Ndilime advised.

He emphasised that maintaining fitness during the off-season is crucial for a strong start to the new campaign.

“A player’s fitness directly impacts their performance at the beginning of the season. Staying healthy and fit is key to starting on the right foot,” Ndilime concluded.