Well known soccer administrator Papiky is no more

A famous soccer administrator, referee and electrician, Mr Shumani Papiky Leaka (34) ,died in a vehicle accident at Kutama last Tuesday.

In his heydays, he was the coach and administrator of Madombidzha Celtic FC. At the time of his death, he was working as a soccer referee for the Makhado Local Football Association and Safa MMK league.

The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the community he served throughout his life. According to several observers, Leaka has left a huge void in the soccer fraternity.

The deputy president of Safa Vhembe, Mr Joseph Maphaha, said the football family had lost one of its pillars, who had always been working hard towards the development of soccer. "The whole region was shocked when we heard of his untimely death. We have been with him for many years."

A family member, Mr Oscar Leaka, said the family was in great pain after losing one of their beloved members. One of the Madombidzha Celtic officials, Mr Micheal Malange, said it would be difficult to replace a man such as Leaka, as he had been extremely dedicated to his job. Malange emphasised that Leakai was a fallen hero, who had been involved in the development of soccer.

He is survived by his wife and three children. He will be buried tomorrow (Saturday) at Madombidzha. The service will start at 06:00 at his home and then proceed to the graveyard.

Date:09 November 2018

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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