Former Vaal Pros striker laid to rest
At the time of his death, Modise was part of the South African Masters and Legends Football Association (SAMLFA).
EVATON.- Unity was the order of the day when former soccer players and legends came to bid farewell to Johannes “Satch” Modise (77).
This former Vaal Professional deadly striker was laid to rest at his final destination at Evaton Cemetery on Sunday. His funeral service which was attended by friends, former teammates, and those whom he used to play against held at his home next to the Muti House complex.
At the time of his death, Modise was part of the South African Masters and Legends Football Association (SAMLFA). Attending his funeral were Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs legends, especially those he played with, and scored against.
In his day, Modise would score incredible goals and many described him as the best striker in South Africa by then. One of the amateur teams Modise played for before he joined Vaal Pros was Evaton Old Boys before he was recruited to join Vaal Professionals in 1972.
Modise was one of the most feared strikers in a professional league and has always been one of the top goal scorers. He was selected to play for the Transvaal Squad in 1973 and was also selected for the South African Black X1 Squad.
SAMLFA Provincial Deputy Chairman, Love Moremi, is one of the SAMLFA members who also took care of Modise until his last day. He shared the life of Modise with mourners, about how Bra Satch used to struggle but his wife Alina was always there to take care of him.
Themba Mokoena, who is Sedibeng SAMLAF Chairman said Modise was in good standing with the SAMLFA until his last day. SAMLAF League, represented by former professional soccer player, Peter “Fire” Khoabane, pleaded for unity between the former soccer players, legends, and members of SAMLFA. Khoabane said there is division among people who run football in this region and this hurts the region at large.
“We must not be afraid to tell the truth because we are not united as we might be seen here. A lot needs to be done to bring all the former soccer players and legends under the same umbrella. When we die we are all buried like paupers because no one takes care of us while we are still alive,” concluded Khoabane.
