Career
Born in Northern Rhodesia, Phiri played club football for local side Nchanga Rangers F.C. for nearly fifteen years. After retiring from playing football in 1983, Phiri became a coach. He was appointed manager of Nchanga Rangers F.C. in 1984.
Born to policeman Mulimakwenda Phiri.
Willie Phiri"s father hoped for better ambitions for his first-born son and supported his education more than a fledgling soccer career. Damiano had been observant of the young Phiris talents as he played amongst his friends.
Convinced of the possibility of a real talent being unexposed, he whisked young Willie Phiri off to see the local towns football club Nchanga Rangers manager at the time. Phiri Went on to be a local legend for the club that he went on to manage.
In January 1993 Phiri got involved in a road traffic accident that left him wheelchair bound.
His love for the sport continued and was instrumental with Nchanga Rangers and the national teams accolades throughout his entire life. Willie Phiri died one day short of his 58th birthday. Famously remembered for his free kicks, banana shots and the dribble known as "walking walking" the memoirs of this legend will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
