Nikola Kavazovic Appointed Head Coach of Vipers Sports Club
By John Kusolo
In a strategic move aimed at restoring their former glory, Vipers Sports Club, the six-time Uganda Premier League champions, have officially appointed Serbian national Nikola Kavazovic as their new head coach. Kavazovic, 48, has signed a two-year contract, extending his tenure with the club until at least 2026.
A Daunting Task Ahead
Kavazovic joins the Venoms following a challenging season in which the team failed to secure any trophies. Vipers concluded their 2023/24 campaign with a third-place finish in the Uganda Premier League and a quarterfinal exit in the Stanbic Uganda Cup. His primary objective will be to rejuvenate the team’s competitive edge and lead them back to the pinnacle of Ugandan football.
“I’m happy to be in Uganda and at a big club like Vipers. I thank the club president (Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa) for the trust he has given me,” said Kavazovic in his initial remarks.
Extensive Managerial Experience
Kavazovic brings with him a wealth of experience, having managed over ten teams, including national teams and clubs across multiple continents. His coaching journey is marked by notable successes and diverse experiences:
National Teams: Kavazovic served as the head coach for the Tajikistan national football team from 2012 to 2013 and for Sri Lanka’s national team from 2014 to 2015. Notably, in July 2012, he became the youngest national team head coach globally at the age of 36.
Club Achievements : In Tajikistan, he led FC Istiklol to a league championship and won the AFC President's Cup in 2012. His managerial roles have taken him across Serbia, Maldives, Bangladesh, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, and Ethiopia, showcasing his adaptability and strategic acumen.
His recent positions include:
Ethiopia Coffee (Aug 2023 – June 2024)
Soua Flamingoes (Dec 2022 – Aug 2023)
Township Rollers in Botswana, where he had two tenures (July 2020 – July 2022 and July 2017 – Nov 2018)
Jwaneng Galaxy (Sept 2019 – July 2020)
Free State Stars in South Africa (Dec 2018 – July 2019)
Saif SC in Bangladesh (Sept 2016 – April 2017)
Qualifications and Training
Kavazovic is a holder of the UEFA A license and is currently enrolled in the UEFA Pro license program with the Football Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This level of professional training underscores his commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to the highest standards of football coaching.
Looking Forward
Vipers Sports Club is optimistic that Kavazovic’s extensive experience and proven track record will steer the club back to success. His task will involve not only refining the team’s tactical play but also fostering a winning mentality that can translate into silverware.
As the new season approaches, the club’s management, players, and fans eagerly anticipate the impact of Kavazovic’s leadership. With his appointment, Vipers Sports Club aims to reclaim its dominance in the Uganda Premier League and achieve greater heights in domestic and continental competitions.
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