Copper Queens head coach Nora Hauptle has reaffirmed her full commitment to leading the team, despite facing delays in salary payments since her appointment.
Appointed in January 2025, Hauptle had not received her full salary for four months. However, Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts Elvis Nkandu recently told BolaNews that the Swiss coach has now been paid in full.
“We have paid everything. It was $16,000 for four months, from January to April. Everything has been cleared,” Nkandu said in an interview during the Annual Sports Awards at the Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka.
Hauptle took over from Bruce Mwape, who concluded a six-year stint as head coach of the Zambia Women’s National Team. The 41-year-old Swiss national signed a three-year contract with the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).
Despite the earlier frustrations caused by the late payments, Hauptle remained composed when addressing the issue at a press conference on Saturday. She stated that she was unaware of the specific figures mentioned by the minister.
“I never heard these numbers but certain things are also concluded from agency to FA, and it’s not for me to speak. I’m here. I’m fully committed,” she responded.
Hauptle added: “I always deliver 150% or even more. So I’m curious and still very excited about the journey we’re going on. So I am committed.
“I’m here. I’m a rock, so nothing can make me shake.”
Hauptle returned to Zambia last week to prepare for upcoming international friendlies against South Africa and Botswana, scheduled for May 31 and June 2, respectively, in Johannesburg.
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