Soccer lovers still shocked after player commits suicide

A local soccer player, Mashudu “Judah” Madzhie (21), allegedly committed suicide at Matshavhawe last Thursday.

Madzhie played for Maelula United Brothers in the Safa Vhembe MMK Administrators League.

The spokesperson of the family, Mr Steven Mukwevho, said the incident had left them with many questions unanswered. “It is very difficult to accept the death of a healthy child whom you last saw a few days earlier.” He said that the family had accepted that it was the will of God and that they were looking to God for comfort. “There are things that we as human beings cannot change. We all have to accept those things and go on with life,” he said.

The manager of Maelula United Brothers, Mr Khathutshelo Muvhumbe, said that Madzhie had always been positive and had told lots of jokes. “This is a huge shock and totally unexpected. We mourn his death." Muvhumbe added that they had lost a young, energetic player who was enjoying football. He added that the whole team was in deep mourning and the mood was very sombre. “The whole team will have to undergo counselling.”

Ha added that the opposition teams had always had a problem with Madzhie’s skills on the pitch. “Local soccer fanatics will remember him for his defending skills, which made him an instant hero in the area.”

The secretary of Safa Vhembe, Vhavenda Vho Mulimisi Muneri, said that his association was deeply saddened by Madzhie’s death and he sent his condolences to the family. “News of this nature is heart-breaking, and our thoughts are with the family and fellow team members,” Muneri said.

According to Muneri, news of the death had sent shock waves through the sporting family in Limpopo. He also mentioned that Madzhie's death was a huge loss, “and to repair it will not be easy. His tragic death left us with deep pain, grief and anguish.” He expressed his condolences to the grieving family. Madzhie will be buried tomorrow (Saturday) at Matshavhawe.

Date:27 March 2020

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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