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Award like a national call-up: Motaung

DELIGHTED: Kaizer Motaung
DELIGHTED: Kaizer Motaung

SOCCER great Kaizer "Chincha Guluva" Motaung has described the national order presented to him by President Jacob Zuma as being similar to representing South Africa on the field of play.

The Kaizer Chiefs chairman, also known as BoyBoy, received the Order of Ikhamanga for his contribution to soccer development in the country.

Other people honoured on Saturday night included US civil rights activist Jesse Jackson, African Union commission chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and swimming sensation Chad le Clos.

In his days as a youngster, Motaung was one of the best players in the country. His professional soccer career started in the early 1960s with Orlando Pirates.

He relocated to the US to further his career where he rubbed shoulders with the likes of Pele of Brazil and Germany's Franz Beckenbauer.

Motaung played with distinction in the US and was followed by the likes of Jomo Sono, Webster Lichaba, Andries Maseko and Kenneth Mokgojoa during the dark days of apartheid.

"It's a great feeling to be part of this interesting exercise, it makes one think of where we come from. I'm humbled by the gesture from President Zuma," said Motaung yesterday.

"I dedicate the award to all the people who supported and contributed to my career. There are too many such people that I won't do them justice if I start singling them out.

"The award is not about Kaizer Motaung alone. As you are aware, I never had a chance to represent my country internationally because of our apartheid past.

"For me the award is the greatest achievement I have ever received, especially coming from the highest office in the country.

"I want to thank South Africa for honouring me, this award for me is similar to getting a call-up to represent my country at the World Cup or Afcon tournaments."

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