Four years ago, Stewart Murisa, the former soccer star, found himself in the depths of despair.
As a member of the coaching staff at CAPS United, he was unable to cope with the heartbreak that followed the team’s collapse on the final day of the championship race.
Serving as Darlington Dodo’s assistant coach, Murisa and the Green Machine were on the verge of securing the league title, which would have been their second triumph in three years. CAPS United had previously clinched the championship under the guidance of Lloyd Chitembwe in 2016, marking their fifth overall crown.
With just two games remaining in the 2019 championship race, CAPS United had a golden opportunity to secure the title. Their first chance came in the penultimate match against Ngezi Platinum Stars, but they suffered a disappointing 2-3 defeat.
Nevertheless, all hope was not lost as CAPS United faced a winner-takes-all encounter against defending champions FC Platinum in their final game of the season. A victory would have seen them crowned champions, two points ahead of their rivals.
However, fate dealt a cruel blow to the Green Machine, and they succumbed to a 0-1 defeat on home soil, relinquishing their chance of lifting the trophy. The disappointment was particularly crushing for Murisa, who had played a pivotal role in CAPS United’s triumphant campaign in 1996, ending a 17-year championship drought.
The weight of the loss took a toll on Murisa’s spirit and soul, plunging him into a state of profound distress. Seeking solace, he turned to alcohol as a means of escape from the pain that consumed him. Alcohol abuse became a daily occurrence, as he desperately sought the peace his soul yearned for in the aftermath of the championship heartbreak.
“I would drink every day,” he said.
“The stress was just too much because we were so close to doing something very good for our club and our fans.
“However, we didn’t do it and, when you lose at home, in the final game of the season, it really hurts and I really suffered.”
However, out of the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged. Murisa made a life-altering decision, realizing that enough was enough. Determined to overcome his demons, he quit drinking alcohol altogether. Now, four years later, he remains steadfast in his sobriety, having not touched a drop of alcohol since.
Today, Murisa has transitioned into coaching and is actively involved in guiding the Yadah FC junior teams and development programs. His journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to triumph over personal struggles and emerge stronger on the other side.
Murisa’s story carries valuable lessons for those battling similar demons, offering hope and inspiration. His resilience and commitment to sobriety exemplify the strength of the human spirit and serve as a testament to the power of personal transformation.
As Stewart Murisa continues to make an impact in the world of football, his triumph over adversity stands as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome, and brighter days lie ahead for those who persevere.
