The death of Dr. Phil Maepa has sent shockwaves through the entire medical and football fraternities in South Africa. Masubathele, as I used to call him was loyalty and football passion personified. Having grown up a Moroka Swallows fan, he was one the millions who were swept off their feet by the exciting brand of football that Kaizer Chiefs introduced in the seventies.

As a young, hardworking and intelligent medical student he was known to travel to Chiefs matches across the country, by train nogal. Although he was a dedicated doctor who served the community of Siyabuswa selflessly, he found time to travel to most club matches for more than 20 years. That made him one of the fathers of Sports Medicine in the country and illustrates his level of commitment and professionalism.

At Doctor Khumalo’s recent wedding he gave a heart-rending speech that not only demonstrated the spiritual person he was, but also the close relationship he enjoyed with the players he served.

His passing away has left a serious void in our personal and professional lives. We owe the international strides that some of us have made in Football Medicine to the foundation that was laid by pioneers such as Dr Maepa.

On behalf of all the Sports Physicians in the country I pass our heartfelt condolences to the Maepa Family, Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, his friends, colleagues and the communities he served.

May his soul rest in peace.

Dr Victor Ramathesele

Chief Medical Officer

2010 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee South Africa