The raw emotion which surfaced during the Rygate LFA’s centenary celebrations held at the Mayoral Banquet Hall, Civic Centre on Saturday evening, epitomised the true spirit of ubuntu and humanity.
Needless to say that the beautiful game of football, which we all love so dearly, was once again the common denominator that brought together people from all walks of life.
Not a single soul present at the “great” spectacle – when the Rygate LFA honoured its lifetime members for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment and dedication to the development of the game on an administrative level – could say that they did not experience goosebumps.
Other than the event finishing just after 23:00 – which was clearly a shock to the body of many of the senior citizens and football legends present – no one could really find fault with a well-run and grand event. Hats off to all as everyone dressed up smartly which just added to the occasion.
But it was the honouring of the LFA’s former stalwarts such as Nasser Abdullah, Shokut Mia, Bennett Bailey, Graham Dirks, the late Biennie Alexander, ‘Doelie’ Alexander, Faizel Samaai and others which grabbed the attention of all the attendees and no one, except the organisers of course, knew what was going to play out.
It was an emotional occasion to say the least with tears flowing freely as the Rygate stalwarts, who had laid the foundation, were honoured on a magical evening. It was also pleasing to witness that individuals being recognised whilst they are still alive to experience the moment.
Hence, a special salute should go out to the Rygate LFA’s current president Abdul Tajoodien along with his team who pulled out all the stops to ensure that guests had a memorable evening which also served as a platform for the association’s year-end presentation.
Judging from the esteemed lineage from which Tajoodien hails, it makes sense as to why “Doeltjies” is such an astute administrator – he clearly learnt from the very best in the business.
It was a celebration of 100 years of pure magic – from the humble beginning as the Indian Football League, through the vibrant years of the Football Association of Western Province (FAWP), to the Greater Athlone District and eventually the Rygate LFA.
Their motto “The Only Choice” is definitely fitting as they have shown to lead the way through stormy and calm seas. This LFA also had its fair share of politics as it was one and still is one of the cultural most diverse LFA’s under the Safa CT banner.
They are the only LFA to have boasted with the biggest cup competition in the Murway Cup. Decades on that have again paved the way with the biggest youth soccer festival on the African continent the Spar Mookrey Rygate Cubs Festival – the brainchild of the Safa CT president and Safa National vice president in Bailey and Tajoodien.
Johnson Road has really stood the test of time – and the rich history along with its turbulent times is why Rygate has really become “The Only Choice.”
PHOTO SUPPLIED BY RICARDO SNYMAN
