Johannesburg – Bafana Bafana coach Thomas Madigage was one of the youngest and most promising coaches in the country, President Jacob Zuma said on Friday.
“In the words of his peers, he was an epitome of composure, respect and yet such agility,” Zuma said in a statement.
“We remember his speed and agility on the field as well as the ability to shoot and score from a very long distance.”
Madigage, 41, was killed in an accident near Burgersfort, Limpopo on Thursday night.
He was alone in his car on the R37 between Polokwane and Burgersfort when a donkey crossed the road. He was unable to avoid it, police said.
“We would like to pass our sincere condolences to the family, friends and the entire nation on this shocking development,” Zuma said.
The SA Football Association (Safa) was saddened by the news.
“We are shocked and at a loss for words... we are on our way to meet the family and find out what actually happened,” Safa president Kirsten Nematandani said in a statement.
“We would like to pass our sincere condolences to the family, friends and the entire nation on this shocking development.”
The SA Council of Churches said Madigage loved his country.
“Madigage displayed commitment and a love for his country.”
The portfolio committee for sports, recreation, arts and culture in the Gauteng Legislature said his death was a sad loss for the country.
“You represented South African football and sports both domestically and internationally with respect and dignity. Death be not proud. Rest in peace Tommy.”
Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi sent condolences through the social network twitter.
“Heartfelt condolences to family & friends of Thomas Madigage who died in a car accident last night.”
The Road Traffic Management Corporation tweeted: “The death of the national soccer team assistant coach Thomas Madigage comes as a shock. It is sad to lose him in a car accident. RIP coach.” – Sapa