A famous soccer guru, Mr Doctor Makhokha (photo), died peacefully at his home on Friday after a long illness.

During his heydays, Makhokha (50) played for Matsa All Stars, a team he ended up training in the late nineties. He then coached Matsa Northern Stars and later involved himself in the development of young soccer players. He worked at the Dzanani Football Association until the soccer association merged according to the municipal demarcation.

At the time of his death, he was working as the development officer for the Makhado Local Football Association and as manager of Matsa Northern Stars. He was a teacher at the Mulenga Secondary school.

The president of Safa Vhembe, Mr George Kubayi, said the football family had lost one of its pillars, who had always been working hard towards the development of the soccer. "The whole region was shocked when we heard of his untimely death. We have been with him for many years . We used to visit him even during his last days and he could not stop talking about soccer."

A family member, Mr Tshimangadzo Makhokha, said the family was in great pain after losing one of their beloved members. "We are greatly saddened by his death, but we will have to accept it, because God’s will has been done. May his soul rest in peace."

He is survived by his wife, three children, brothers, sisters and mother. He will be buried tommorow (Saturday) at Biaba. The service will start at 06:00 at his home and then proceed to the graveyard.