A man who played an immeasurable role in the development of soccer in the former Republic of Venda was finally recognised after 33 years. More than 300 people gathered at Raluvhimba High School, in Makonde, to celebrate the achievements of Mr Azwinndini Donald Makhado (58) who pioneered the game of soccer in the village more than 30 years ago.

Makhado, who is presently unemployed, was working on the Reef when he started one of then most feared teams in Venda, Makonde Young Zebras, in 1974. He bought six soccer kits for the team unassisted and paid for their trips to the matches. Unfortunately, Makhado lost his job and could no longer support the team financially, which led to the disbanding of the team.

Like a forgotten hero, the community kept quiet for 33 years until they decided to shower him with gifts for his contributions.

The organizer of the function and a former player of Makonde Young Zebras, Mr Tshililo Alidzulwi, said the community felt that it could not ignore the good work that was done by Makhado while he was still financially strong. "He bought soccer kits and affiliated the team in the then Ellerines League, unaided. This man is a true hero and he deserves royal treatment for what he did to the community. He posed a very big challenge to the community by running the team alone in hard times. Today, there are many people who are working but they do not even invest a single cent in the community."

Makhado, who could not contain himself due to his excitement, said: "I feel very honoured today although my heart is bleeding because the team no longer exists. Although it was very difficult to run a team alone at that time, I am happy that my people have finally recognized me." Makhado said he was inspired when he watched a game between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at Orlando Stadium in the early seventies. "I then decided to take the sport home by buying the kits for the boys – and the rest is now history."