Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Koketso Romeo Matlala, one of South Africa's most promising softball players, was shot dead in Mankweng, Limpopo, at the weekend.

Matlala, 23, was captain of Lebowakgomo Wildbeasts Softball Club.

Reginald "Steppi" Matlala, Koketso's brother, said the family was still shocked by the death.

He said: "Koketso was visiting a sister in Mankweng at the weekend when they heard somebody fiddling with the garage door on Saturday.

"When he went to check what was happening, shots were fired without a word being uttered.

"We have lost a caring brother who loved sports. He had just got a new job in Johannesburg on March 16. Funeral arrangements will be given soon"

Inspector Malan Nchabeleng of the Mankweng police confirmed Matlala's death.

"The information we have is that Romeo was shot when he went to check what was happening after he heard somebody trying to force the garage door open.

"The police are investigating and we appeal to anybody with information to tell us," said Nchabeleng.

Koketso, who was also a member of the Limpopo Softball Association provincial team, is from a family of sportsmen and women.

Reginald is a former professional soccer player who captained Mahwelereng Real Rovers.

Another brother, Raymond "Beer" Matlala, played for Wildbeasts, while a sister Millicent Granny Matlala, is one of South Africa's top softball scorers.