19 Feb 2015

Nicholas ‘Lele’ Sebele was one of the astute and straight to the point man, who never minced his words and one of the best players this country has ever produced with the limited resources back then.

On Saturday, February 14 while watching Township Rollers versus Kaizer Chiefs game, I received a short message ‘Lele Sebele L8’ what came to my mind was our informal meeting when he said to me “little one you talk too much, but one day this country will appreciate you as a woman, not just an ordinary woman but a woman who has a potential to change sport landscape in this country”

Now the football legend is no more; he is sleeping, but his legacy will remain, his words will continue to ring bells on some of the people he played with.

Lele was not just an ordinary man in the society; he has served football in various football capacities from a player, coach, referee and administrator.

As fate would have it, Lele suffered a stroke, but never ditched sport given that he once served as president of Paralympics Association of Botswana. The family spokesperson, Patrick Sebele said  prayers are ongoing at the legend’s house in  Maru-A-pula. 

He will be buried on Saturday, February 21 in Gaborone.

Being the first citizen to obtain a high level coaching and refereeing certificate, Lele rose to the ranks of being the best referees’ instructor in the country. He played for various football club’s in Botswana amongst them Maletamotse, Gaborone United, Mochudi Rovers, Mahalapye Hotspurs, Mokgosi Young Fighters as well as playing for the national team.

His hard work in sport never went unnoticed given that on Botswana Independence Day in 2002, he was bestowed Presidential order of Meritorious Service; the award given to individuals who had excelled in different fields.

Last year, Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) also honoured him in its Hall of Fame for his contribution in sport.

Meanwhile, Botswana Premier League out of respect; has decided that a moment of silence shall be observed at all Premier League matches this week and the Mascom Top 8 Semi-final first leg.

Meanwhile, Botswana Football Association held a memorial service at Lekidi Astro Turf training field on Wednesday, February 18.  ENDS