Thanda Royal Zulu GM dies
Described as a big blow to the football fraternity as a whole, Thabani Gumede had contributed greatly to the development of the sport in the region.
THE soccer fraternity woke up to the shocking news on Friday morning that Thanda Royal Zulu FC General Manager Thabani Gumede has passed away.
Described as a big blow to the football fraternity as a whole, Gumede had contributed greatly to the development of the sport in the region.
He joined Thanda in 2009 when the team was still Durban-based and playing in the PSL.
He later joined Jomo Cosmos after the squad was relegated to the NFD, but returned to the Amabhubesi in 2011.
Soccer flowed in his blood and despite his illness, he never missed a game that Thanda played.
‘He contributed greatly to the club’s success and remained loyal to the outfit during their highs and lows.
‘We shared the same dream of identifying young talent in Zululand and exposing them to professional football, developing them and giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential,’ said CEO Pierre Delvaux.
‘ Our second goal was to get Thanda promoted so that we could offer the youth of Zululand the opportunity of playing for a Premier League club right here in Zululand.
‘The club owes Thabani enormous gratitude for his long service. Thabani’s commitment, enthusiasm and unwavering dream to make a difference in football in Zululand and to strive for excellence, served as an example for all. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family,’ Delvaux said.
