Zimbabwe Mourns Former Football Star Norman Maroto
HARARE – The Zimbabwean football community is in mourning following the death of former Dynamos and Gunners striker Norman Maroto. He passed away in Harare after a short illness.
Maroto passed in the early hours of Friday at a private hospital in Harare, after being admitted and put on life support.
The Footballers Union of Zimbabwe (FUZ), where he was working with fellow legend Desmond Maringwa and a team of former stars, confirmed his passing.
“FUZ would like to notify friends and all football stakeholders of the untimely passing of our Communications Officer, Norman Maroto.
“Mourners are gathered at No. 2360 Tynwald South, Harare. More information will be shared in the near future,” said FUZ.
Maroto, a key figure in Zimbabwean football, was renowned for his scoring prowess and dedication to the sport.
Norman Maroto made his mark in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League (PSL) with his exceptional talent and goal-scoring ability. He began his professional career with Dynamos, one of Zimbabwe's most prestigious football clubs.
Later, he joined Gunners, where he achieved notable success, including winning the Golden Boot in 2010 after scoring 22 goals in a single season. This achievement made him the last player in the PSL to score more than 20 goals in a season, a record that still stands.
Maroto was also part of the famous “Kidznet” project under the legendary coach Moses Chunga, which aimed to nurture young football talent in Zimbabwe. His contributions to both Dynamos and Gunners left an indelible mark on the clubs and earned him a place in the hearts of many football fans.
After retiring from professional football, Maroto remained involved in the sport, working with the Footballers Union of Zimbabwe to support and empower retired players. In 2022, he had a memorable moment when he met his football hero, former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, during a training seminar in Switzerland. This encounter was a dream come true for Maroto, an ardent Arsenal supporter.
Norman Maroto's legacy extends beyond his football career, as he was known for his humility and dedication to helping others in the sport. His passing is a significant loss to the Zimbabwean football community, and he will be remembered for his contributions on and off the pitch.
Maroto is survived by his siblings, including his sister Happiness Maroto, a rising star in Zimbabwean basketball. The Maroto family has a rich sporting heritage, and Norman's influence will continue to inspire future generations.
The football fraternity in Zimbabwe and beyond has expressed its condolences to Maroto's family and friends during this difficult time. His impact on Zimbabwean football will not be forgotten, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who admired his talent and dedication.
