A local soccer legend and member of the South African National Defence Force, Mr Enos "Rhee" Ramphai (47) of Tshiozwi, passed away after a short illness in 1 Millitary Hospital in Thabatshwane last week.
He became a member of the defence force in 1990. During his heydays, he played for Tshiozwi Dynamos and the former Venda homeland's national team. He played with stars like Chaina Madzena, Shoes Tshilate, Ivy Mathuba, Tshisamphiri Madima, Nana Masase, Toyko Mukwevho, Ace Kabote, Muzekezeke Ramabulana and the late Innocent "Tornado" Mulaudzi.
He was coached by the former Venda Football Association's president, Mr Ronald Makhadi. Makhadi said it would be difficult for the nation to replace a man like Ramphai as he was extremely dedicated to his job. Makhadi emphasised that Ramphai was a fallen hero who had been involved in the development of soccer. "This came as a shock to me and the whole community," he said.
The president of Tshiozwi Dynamos, Mr Patrick Sidebi, said the football family had lost one of its pillars who had always worked hard towards the development of soccer. "The whole area was shocked when we heard of his untimely death," he added.
Sidebi described Ramphai as a brave player who was helping young ones and who was loyal to the community and team and to his fellow men.
A family member, Mr Joseph Lethole, said the family was in great pain after losing one of their beloved members. He is survived by his wife, five children, mother, two sisters and a brother. He will be buried in the Tshiozwi cemetery tomorrow (Saturday) at 06:00.