KIMBERLEY- The South African Football Association (SAFA) has learnt with shock and disbelief the sudden passing away of former Bafana Bafana and Free State Stars forward, Richard Tebogo Henyekane.

 

The 31-year old player died in a car accident in the early hours of Tuesday morning (7 March) when he was involved in a tragic car accident. He was with four other people in the vehicle.

 

SAFA would like to convey their heartfelt and deepest condolences to the family, friends, teammates and supporters of Henyekane.

 

His death comes just five months after the passing away of his brother Joseph Henyekane, himself a professional former footballer.

 

“Another soldier has fallen. Richard’s death comes at a time when we were not really done grieving the passing away of his brother Joseph. SAFA would like to send out our deepest sympathies to the Henyekane family for their heartbreaking loss. We can never know how much pain you are in but just know that you are in our prayers and we ask that the Almighty grant you strength in these trying times,” said SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan who is in Cairo, Egypt attending a CAF Congress.

 

“Sadly, Richard’s death comes at a time we are still trying to come to terms with the death of another prominent figure, Minister Collins Chabane in another car accident; this is devastating.

“While we don’t know yet full details of circumstances surrounding Richard’s tragic death, the message to all is be careful on the roads; be extra vigilant. We are losing our people in this fashion at a rapid rate – we need to do something. May his soul rest in peace.”

 

The Kimberly Express, as he was fondly known, played his last match for Free State Stars on Saturday, 4 April where they lost 1-0 to Amazulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium after coming on as a substitute.

 

His scored his last goal in a 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates at Charles Mopeli Stadium last year in May.

 

In the 2008/09 season, he won the Absa Premiership Top Goalscorer Award with 19 goals.

 

He made nine appearances for Bafana Bafana and was once on the books of Mamelodi Sundowns and Lamontville Golden Arrows.

FACT FILE:

 

Full name:                Tebogo Richard Henyekane

 

DOB:                          28 September 1983

 

Birthplace:               Galeshewe, Kimberley

 

Nickname:                Kimberley Express

 

Clubs played for:    Naughty Boys (amateur team), Basotho Tigers, Premier United, Hellenic, Golden Arrows, Mamelodi Sundowns, Free State Stars

 

Honours:                   Nine Bafana Bafana caps

2008/09 PSL Top Goal scorer

2009 MTN 8 winner (Golden Arrows)

-TDN

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