TRIBUTES are pouring in for the late legendary radio and television sports commentator Dan Setshedi, who passed away at his home in GaRankuwa, north of Pretoria, last weekend.

Affectionately known as "Oom Dan", Setshedi, 80, died after being in and out of hospital for some time.

The Premier Soccer League yesterday described Setshedi's death as a big loss to sports commentary in South Africa.

Setshedi was a top commentator with a career in radio and television that spanned almost 50 years.

Karate administrator Peter Thage said: "We are saddened by the passing on of Oom Dan, the father of sports commentary in the black community."

Soweto Football Association president Phil Mogodi said: "He was one of the best. He always did his homework before sitting down behind the microphone."

SABC radio sports producer Aubrey Motloung said: "Oom Dan was not selfish . When I joined the SABC he mentored me ."

Setshedi's memorial service will be held at Zone 1 community hall in GaRankuwa today from 1pm to 4pm. He will be buried at Lady Selbourne Cemetery on Saturday. The service starts at the Methodist Church in Zone 4 at 7.30am.