By Obakeng Maje
Mahikeng- The football fraternity is still reeling in shock and sadness following the untimely passing on of SAFA Ngaka Modiri Molema Regional President, Mr Malefo Simon Gaboutlwelwe.

Gaboutlwelwe died on 14 May in Mahikeng, North West after a short illness.

Popularly known as Bizza in football circles, Gaboutlwelwe was a loyal and dedicated servant of the Game.
He rose through the ranks of football administration having played for Barolong High, Mafikeng Pirates, Home Owners and Montshiwa Swallows earning a nickname of “TRR”.

He was a qualified coach having attained the SAFA Coaching badge (Level 1 1995 and Level 2 1998), and was appointed the Provincial Head Coach at SAFA North West from 1995 to 2001.

At the time of his passing away, Gaboutlwelwe was a serving member of the SAFA Technical Committee, which is entrusted with the appointment and monitoring of the National Teams Coaches. He was also the Chairperson of the SAFA North West PEC Technical Committee.

SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan said the passing on of Bizza was a sad chapter for South African football fraternity.

“I have learnt the passing on of Bizza with great shock and disbelief. This is one gentleman who dedicated his entire life to the game of football. He was a loyal and dedicated servant of the Game and his death came as a great shock to the football family,” said Dr Jordaan.

“We are still trying to come to terms with such a huge loss. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.

Gaboutlwelwe leaves behind his wife Pinky and two sons Jomo and Eugene, and will be buried on Saturday 24 May 2014 at St Mary’s family cemetery in Lomanyaneng Village in Mahikeng. The funeral service will be held at the Mmabatho Civic Centre starting 07h00.-TDN
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