Top Botswana soccer club Township Rollers FC announced on Friday that midfielder Gofaone “The President” Tiro passed away after collapsing in training.
Tiro, who played as a right wing for Rollers – who currently lead the Botswana Premier League – participated in training on Friday morning.
But on their website www.rollersfc.com, the club stated that the 26-year-old Tiro had “inadvertently collapsed” during the practice in Tlokweng, a village located about 15km from the South African border and 22km from the capital city of Gaborone.
“It is with deep grief and sorrow that we announce the passing away of our player, Gofaone ‘The President’ Tiro today (28th April, 2017). He was rushed to the nearest medical facility, but was declared dead on arrival,” the club said in a statement.
“We await feedback from the doctors. Supporters shall be informed about the funeral arrangements in due course.
“On behalf of the Township Rollers family, we send our heartfelt condolences to his family, relative and friends. We pray that God may comfort us all in this difficult time.”
GOFAONE TIRO (Township Rollers Player) PASSES ON. pic.twitter.com/jAaEyrk08m
— FUB (@FUB_BW) April 28, 2017
Tiro featured as a second-half substitute in Township Rollers’ last game on Sunday, a 2-0 victory away from home against Security Systems.
Tiro came on to the field in the 50th minute of the match.