5 May 2019 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) would like to pass its deepest condolences to the family of Amajita coach Thabo Senong, following the passing of his mother on Saturday (4 May).

SAFA NEC Member, Jack Maluleke, who is also serving as Amajita’s Head Of Delegation for the upcoming 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup tournament set to take place in Poland, said these were sad news which had befallen the coach’s family.

Maluleke also added that the coach will be released from his coaching duties for now, so that he can be with his family in this time of grief.

Senong learned of his mother’s passing while he was on duty with the national juniors that is currently in Slovakia preparing for the upcoming 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup Poland edition.

“On behalf of the South African Football Association, I would like to pass on our deepest condolences to the family of our coach, Thabo Senong, following the passing of his mother on Monday evening,” Maluleke said.

“He always liked sharing anecdotes of how his mother supported him when he started off his coaching career, and how fond she was of this Amajita team. She always wanted this team to do well and we will forever be grateful for her unwavering support she has given to her son and this team.

Maluleke added: “The coach will be released from his coaching duties for now so that he can have time to mourn with his family during this difficult time. He is flying back to South Africa on Monday (6 May), and will be back in Europe just before the World Cup tournament kicks off in Poland.”