The Federation Professional League played a pivotal role in South African soccer history during the Apartheid era.
by FEROZ SHAIK
THE South African Federation Legends National Committee, an esteemed body composed of former players, officials and supporters of the South African Soccer Federation Professional League (SASFPL), was officially launched at the historic Curries Fountain on Saturday, August 3. The SASFPL played a pivotal role in South African soccer history during the Apartheid era.
The committee represents five key regions: Southern KwaZulu-Natal, Western Province, Gauteng, Northern KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. Each of these regions was integral to the SASFPL.
The primary mission of the committee is to reunite former SASFPL members, preserve the league’s legacy, ensure the well-being of its members, and contribute to coaching and player development.
The committee elected the following office bearers:
Chairperson: Ashwin Trikamjee; the chairpersons of each region as deputy chairs: Stephen Williams (WP), Seraj Abbas(Gauteng), Jasper Vurden (S-KZN), Bravo Jacobs (EC), Mervyn Whiteman (NKZN); Secretary: Haroon Mahomed (WP); Assistant Secretary: Ronnie Moodley (SKZN), Treasurer: Yunus Karolia (GP); Assistant Treasurer: Krish Naidoo (EC): Records Clerk: Derek Eastwood (GP); Media Officer: Morgan Pillay (NKZN); Technical Development Officer: Abubakr Boebie Solomons (WP); and Social Responsibility Officer: Ronald James (NKZN). Gerald Ferror is an additional member.
The SASFPL Legends have been in operation at regional levels since 2006, successfully reconnecting all 45 clubs along with nearly all former players, officials, referees and supporters who were part of the league from 1961 to 1992. Numerous club, regional and national reunions, as well as recognition events, have been organised over the years. Additionally, welfare support has been provided where needed, and each region has conducted coaching and development programmes.
Looking ahead, the committee plans to seek formal recognition from the South African Football Association (SAFA) for their contributions and sacrifices to South African soccer. They aim to deepen their involvement in coaching and development initiatives and to bolster their wellness support programmes.
In his acceptance speech the chairperson, Mr Ashwin Trikamjee, said: ‘The launch of the National SA Fed Soccer Legends is yet another poignant moment in the annals of non-racial sport in South Africa. The launch will ensure that the history of non-racial football will not be erased from the records. The tasks that will be undertaken are preserving the legacy, social responsibility towards all its members, and continued contribution to the development of non- racial coaching and administration. Support will be sourced for all the planned activities.’
Technical Development Officer, Boebie Solomons, representing Western Province, distributed copies of his coaching manual to each region and announced plans to conduct coaching courses aimed at upgrading the skills of all coaches. ‘A coaches’ development programme is planned for each region,’ Solomons said.
This newly formed national committee marks a significant step towards preserving and honouring the rich history of non-racial football in South Africa while ensuring continued contributions to the sport’s future.
