Shock death of Nkobongo’s soccer star ‘Spepe’

Nkobongo soccer star, Sphamandla ‘Spepe’ Mtolo (29), collapsed and died during a training session at the Richards Bay Football Club this morning.

Announced by his club, the midfielder’s death sent shock waves nationally, but more so in his home town KwaDukuza.

He captained the Natal Boys to winning the Glad Africa Championship and qualifying for the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

It was while playing for Nkobongo United that Uthongathi FC coaches and the late chairman, Nico Mkhize, noticed him and offered him a spot in their team.

In his last interview with the Courier, Mtolo attributed his success to his primary school teacher, Bheki Magwaza.

He said Magwaza was the man who taught him all about soccer since he was a Grade 1 pupil at Shakaskraal SA Primary.

Magwaza said he was deeply pained by Mtolo’s death.

“He was among the first group I taught to play soccer wearing soccer boots. I watched him grow and was very proud to see him play in the PSL. His death is something that will take time for me to process,” said Magwaza.

Local soccer coach, Ajipha Mtamila, who coached Mtolo when he was a young boy, said Mtolo was their idol and served as an example to motivate young boys in Nkobongo.

“He was one of the most disciplined boys I ever coached in my life. This is a huge loss for the community and sport industry, such a brilliant player gone too soon,” said Mtamila.

Mtolo’s biggest dream was to get a call-up to the national team.

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