Four Kaizer Chiefs legends were among seven South African football heroes inducted into the Hall of Fame on Wednesday.
The late Patrick ‘Ace’ Ntsoelengoe, Nelson ‘Teenage’ Dladla, Neil Tovey and Lucas Radebe were inducted into the Hall of Fame during an illustrious induction ceremony this week.
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Dr. Jomo Sono, Banyana Banyana coach Dr. Desiree Ellis and former Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim ‘Shakes’ Mashaba were the other inductees for their achievements and endless work to put South African football on the map.
“What we did was not for the accolades nor the attention, it was for the passion,” former Chiefs captain Lucas Radebe told Chiefs’ media department, while Dladla hailed the impact of Dr. Kaizer Motaung, saying: “If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have reached the heights I did.”
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Current Chiefs captain, Yusuf Maart was also in attendance and emphasised the importance of this recognition for the club’s legend.
“This should serve as an inspiration to the current generation of players,” he added.
“Players should not think they’ve made it when they arrive at Chiefs. In fact, that’s when he hard work should begin.”
Four-time CAF Women’s Coach of the Year, Ellis said she felt honoured about the special recognition, dishing out thanks to many who helped her to excel and bring success to difficult circumstances in SA women’s football.
“To listen to their stories was absolutely amazing and incredible, and many people in the room could relate to that,” the Banyana coach told SAFA.
“I just need to thank a lot of people who were part of my journey because without their contribution, I wouldn’t be standing where I am.
“A special mention, of course, must go to the Banyana Banyana players, the staff, the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Sasol. I don’t work in isolation.
“I think it’s through their fantastic efforts that I’m able to stand up there. And also, a big thank you to everyone out there that works in women’s sport and women’s football because we all know the challenges we face.
“But through all of that, we’re still able to perform on the international arena. Again, a big thank you to SAFA and Sasol for their unwavering support, and of course, the new player in women’s football, VW, who has come on board.”
Image credit: SA Hall of Fame
