Alexio Sigion takes charge of Nsingizini Hotspurs
ZIMBABWE-BORN Nsingizini Hotspurs head coach Alexio Sigion is enjoying a good start at his‘new’home after picking seven points out of a possible nine in the three opening assignments.
The former Ngezi and F.C Platinum gaffer was assigned to his new role in Swaziland at the beginning of the year, in a move meant to add a fresh perspective to the Nsingizini dugout.
Sigion came in to replace Meck Mwase on a two-year deal.
He is expected to use his vast experience to assist the club win the championship race after finishing on position six in the Eswathini Premier League, last season.
And after picking successive wins in his first two assignments before settling for a draw, the former Shabanie Mine gaffer could be on the right direction.
“It was scary, getting a role in a foreign land, as head coach because such opportunities are rare hence you should understand what it means,” he said.
“I told myself that I needed to make use out of it; I am not a superman in the game, we all learn everyday so this is a two-way thing which should benefit both sides.”
The CAF A Licence holder is celebrated for his tactical expertise, the ability to develop young talent who went on to ply their trade in both the lower league and topflight.
His pivotal role is acknowledged in the success of several clubs in the domestic league.
Sigion feels that his role in Eswatini is a practical test which he must complete, and as well produce positive results at the best possible time.
“I gained a lot of exposure and experience during my time as an assistant coach across Zimbabwe,” he said.
“Although I worked under other Coaches, they often gave me the platform to make decisions and learn to be answerable and that developed me in a big way.
“As an Assistant Coach you somehow work under the head, now being the head coach, there is a bit of pressure and all eyes are cantered on me.
“However, this is a game that I love and it is literally my life. I learnt so much when I was with big clubs, Ngezi and FC Platinum, I have self-belief.
“I am giving my best, I believe it makes my life easy and also to take every game as it is…starting on a good note like this at a club with clearly defined expectations and targets, I need to bring my A-game every day.”
Part of his duties involve making key decisions on the training ground and during match times.
He also has to ensure that players are prepared for any eventuality in terms of their fitness, technical and tactical aspects.
“I have to prepare a training schedule, prepare a report of the matches and training sessions, attend fourth estate interviews, be answerable to supporters on their pre and post matches views whether negative or positive.
“Sometimes you have to play a parental role to be able to bring the best out of a player.
“My other task from the first day is to remind them that it is important to focus on winning games and being consistent down the stretch, remaining focused on and this has paid off.
“It is also my responsibility to continue teaching them that winning is not getting ahead of others but in working as a team.
“I joined the team when the season was already underway so I did not bring in or recommend any new players, I am dealing with the team that was already there.”