Kaindu joins Hardrock FC

Newly promoted Kwekwe-based side Hardrock FC has wasted no time in signalling its intentions ahead of its debut season in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) in 2026.

The ambitious "Golden Boys" have made a bold statement by appointing highly rated Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu as head coach, a move that underlines the club's determination to be more than mere survival candidates in their maiden top-flight campaign.

Kaindu arrives with a growing reputation for tactical sharpness and mental resilience, attributes he showcased during one of the most dramatic relegation escapes in recent PSL history. He joined struggling giants Dynamos FC midway through the season when their situation appeared dire.

At the beginning of August, with just 11 matches remaining, Dynamos were rooted in 17th place, seven points from safety. What followed was remarkable. Kaindu masterminded an 11-match unbeaten run, with the Glamour Boys securing their top-flight status on the final day of the season.

The achievement highlighted not only Kaindu's technical competence but also his ability to instil belief, discipline and a winning mentality in a pressured dressing room—qualities Hardrock FC will lean on as they navigate the demands of the PSL.

The club confirmed the appointment in a statement on Saturday.

"Hardrock Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Kelvin Kaindu as the new head coach, effective immediately. A highly respected figure in African football, coach Kaindu brings extensive experience and a winning pedigree to the Golden Boys," the statement read.

"His managerial journey includes successful spells with Zanaco FC, Power Dynamos, Highlanders FC, and most recently, he guided Dynamos FC to victory in the Chibuku Cup."

Kaindu said he was eager to embrace the challenge.

"I'm honoured to be joining Hardrock FC at such a pivotal moment. This club has shown ambition, unity and potential, and I'm ready to contribute to its continued rise," he said.

Club president Shepherd Magodora Chahwanda welcomed the appointment and expressed full confidence in Kaindu's leadership ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Backed by Chahwanda, Hardrock FC has demonstrated a clear commitment to excellence. Their Central Region Soccer League title, which secured promotion to the PSL, marked only the first phase of a broader and more ambitious vision.

That ambition is further reflected in the composition of a strong and experienced technical team. Kaindu will be assisted by Prince Matore, Calvin Maphosa and Isaac Nyabvure, while Munyaradzi Diya will serve as goalkeepers' coach, assisted by Phimuzile Zikhali. Ronald Sibanda has been appointed team manager.

In a communication to stakeholders on Friday, Chahwanda praised the club's achievements in 2025 but stressed that top-flight football demands constant evolution.

"As we prepare for our journey into the 2026 PSL season, we acknowledge that new levels demand new strategies," he said.

"We will implement some structural adjustments in both our executive and technical departments. These adjustments are necessary to strengthen our operations, enhance competitiveness, and align our club with PSL standards."

The emphasis on early structural reform reflects a culture of proactive planning, with the club also reportedly assembling a competitive playing squad as several top players have been linked to the Kwekwe outfit.

Perhaps the most striking symbol of Hardrock's long-term vision is the construction of the Chahwanda Stadium—The Heart Main Arena. The facility is understood to meet Caf standards and is expected to be ready to host league matches next season, providing the team with a world-class home ground and delivering major sporting infrastructure to Kwekwe.

With Kaindu at the helm, strong financial backing, an experienced technical bench and elite infrastructure taking shape, Hardrock FC's ambitions are unmistakable. They are not entering the PSL to make up the numbers.

The league has been put on notice.