Bring back the glory to SA Fed Soccer Legends

IT MIGHT be almost three decades since the curtains on the Federation Professional League and South African Soccer League were drawn but the positive impact it had on our country’s football landscape remains indelible.

The SA Fed Soccer Legends organisation, formed in 2007, serves to remember the glory days and support former players and administrators with financial and medical assistance.

Today the organisation is 10 years old but a dwindling bank balance means they are finding it increasingly difficult to continue their good work.

To raise funds the SA Fed Soccer Legends will hold a 10th anniversary dinner and dance on April 22 at Enchanted Gardens (Old Durban Airport).

Money raised from the event will help them continue their support and will also be pumped into football development in needy communities.

“During the apartheid era, the former professional players and officials made great sacrifices in dismantling the oppressive regime,” vice-chairman and ex-berea manager Don Mudaly said.

“Most of them played for the love of the game and were prepared to play in a non-racial league although legislation was against them,” he said.

“Their involvement in the league meant that they had low-paid jobs and did not have much left to plan for their retirement. It is for this reason that we established the body. Over the past decade we have handed over food hampers, wheelchairs, crutches and cash. We have also assisted with medical care and funerals.”

This Saturday is a chance to remember the glory days, knowing that proceeds go to a good cause.

“We have helped a number of charitable organisations but our funds are now depleted. This is a chance for us to continue working tirelessly to assist those who gave so much to the game,” Mudaly said.