The SAFA Transnet Football School of Excellence announces the passing of Coach James “Akulalwa” Mabena
The sad news of the passing of an icon and a true servant, coach James Mabena to the development of South African football came in the early hours of Saturday morning. The School of Excellence announced that Coach Mabena was admitted at OR Tambo Hospital and that is where he passed away after a short illness.
The Dube Birds, Moroka Swallows also joined in through its social media pages, bidding farewell to one its iconic legends, James “Akulalwa ” Mabena.
With heartfelt condolences pouring in, many people expressed how wonderful and great a man he was, not to mention a fantastic teacher to the young ones on and off the field.
The former Moroka Swallows defender has effortlessly committed himself and dedicated his life to the development of young talent in South Africa. His belief in young people will not go unnoticed. His life spans a work of over two decades committing to unearthing raw talent in the country at the SAFA Transnet Football School of Excellence.
Some of the iconic players to have come out of the School of Excellence and having been coached by coach Mabena include the likes of Steven “Schillo” Pienaar, one of the notable graduates from the School of Excellence and icons to have worn the Bafana Bafana jersey. Daine Klate, Bernad Parker, Bryce Moon and Masilo Modubi, are amongst the proud and excellent graduates of the School of Excellence who have gone to make a landmark in the history of South African football.
Recent graduates from the School of Excellence include the likes of Siyabonga Mabena of Mamelodi Sundowns, Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Boitumelo Radiopane of Orlando Pirates currently on loan to Cape Town Spurs. The list goes on!
Condolences continue to pour in for the man who committed his life to the development and excellency of South African football.
Lala Ngoxolo Tata uqqatso lwakho ulufezile, Robala ka kgotso kgosikgolo: Rest in peace coach James “Akulalwa” Mabena,
