Condolences pouring in for Kungwane
ALEXANDRA - Condolences from sports enthusiasts, national leaders and general public have been pouring in to Shakes Kungoane' family following his recent death.
Condolences from sports enthusiasts, national leaders and the general public have been pouring in for Shakes Kungwane’s family following his death.
A childhood friend, Percy Ndaba who is chairperson of the sports council in Region E, thanked everyone for consoling the family. “We grew up playing soccer together as 10 year olds and have been friends ever since,” he said.
“Shakes who we nicknamed ‘festival’ because of his jovial character would be at the grounds from early morning to evening playing up to 10 games with various teams of older players. He was a humble, straightforward character you couldn’t have a dull moment with until his death.”
He said Shakes’ first love was football and the many comments said about him bore testimony to this. “In Alexandra his passion for football is exemplified by the only soccer academy ever developed in the area seven years ago. Even though it no longer functions, it managed in a short period to develop many footballers, some now playing in higher leagues including Lebohang Manyama who is at Supersport.”
According to Ndaba, Shakes remained loyal to the community of Alexandra, only recently relocating to a nearby area, but continuing his presence in Alex. “He shunned public figure image and accolades preferring to lead a simple life. The local football authorities, especially the Alexandra Football Association should honour his legacy by reviving the Shakes Football Academy.”
Philanthropist Linda Twala said it was a huge loss to Shakes’ family and entire community. “It is loss of a kind hearted, respectful legend who never deserted his community,” he said. “Hopefully others will propagate his legacy.”
Another friend and former national soccer team player, Maimane Phiri said he was struggling to get to terms with the loss, but believed many had benefited from him in many ways including in sports.
The funeral for the late soccer player Isaac ‘Shakes’ Kungwane was held on 7 June at his family ancestral home in Fafung, Brits.
Family spokesperson Aaron Kungwane said the funeral was preceded by two memorial services, the first for his workmates at SuperSport followed by the main one on Wednesday in Alexandra.
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