Dylan Bettencourt
A promising young football player was struck and killed by lightning in Limpopo while celebrating signing for the Mamelodi Sundowns impressive development team.
Lesiba Ramabula, 21, from Seshego outside Polokwane and his friends took to the streets of Zone 1 to celebrate his achievement. But, the midfielder nicknamed “Maestro” will never get to live out his dream after he and one of his friends were struck by lightning.
Reports indicate that Lesiba lost his life on the way to Seshego Hospital. His friend survived with multiple injuries. Some community members have linked the freak incident to witchcraft.
Lesiba was a popular figure in his township due to his incredible football skills.
MEC for Social Development in Limpopo, Nkakareng Rakgoale said they immediately activated a team of social workers to help with counselling.
“We will reach out to the families and start providing psychosocial support services,” said Rakgoale.
“We know the family is obviously going through a lot, as they lost a young family member who is also a promising football star.”
Signing for the DStv Diski Challenge side was a major step in the career of Lesiba. The now famous Percy Tau got his first break in South African football playing for the same team.
The South African football world will mourn losing the talents of Lesiba who looked set to enjoy a long career in football.
Image source: @AfricaNewz
