Football bosses mourn ‘Little Corporal’

Premier Soccer League chairman, Irvin Khoza, and the president of the South African football Association (SAFA), Kirsten Nematandani, have paid homage to one of the most prominent football bosses to ever come out of the Free State, Jabu Khumalo, who passed away on Wednesday night after a long illness.

“Mr Jabu Khumalo will be remembered for a long time for his commitment to football development and his robust engagement in dialogue whenever we met in forums discussing football,” said Khoza. Nematandani described Khumalo as person who was passionate football, whose entire life literally revolved around football.

“We will forever remember him for his dedication to the game and football is poorer without Jabu. He contributed immensely in the building of football to where it is today.”

Khumalo’s involvement in football dates back a number of decades. He spent a considerable period as the PRO at Free State Stars, before branching out to form his own club, the African Warriors, which play in the National First Division (NFD). Nematandani, on behalf of SAFA, extended his condolences to his Khumalo’s family, friends and football affiliates.

“We as SAFA would like to join the Khumalo family, friends and relatives in this time of sorrow and grief and also extend our sympathies to the players and staff of African Warriors. We trust that they will stay strong in the belief that he ran his race to the fullest.

“May his soul rest in peace,” concluded Nematandani.