Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE family of the late Warriors striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro has asked for privacy and respect as they mourn the former star, who was found dead at his Sandton apartment in Johannesburg on Monday.
In a statement, the family said:
“We appreciate all the love and support, and the condolences that have been extended to his family and loved ones thus far. He was a man of the people and loved soccer with all his heart. We honour his achievements and his legacy, and with your support he rose to great heights. We kindly ask that you allow us time to prepare for his send off and to heal. Please respect the family as they grieve at this time. All details for the memorial service will be communicated in due course.”
Ndoro’s body underwent a postmortem in South Africa on Tuesday as the family seeks closure. His father, Silas Mukundwa, confirmed the development.
“I can confirm that his body was taken for forensics in South Africa on Tuesday. We can’t say much as we wait for the results. For now, we are not at liberty to say more and we think it’s prudent to wait for the outcome,” said Mukundwa.
He added: “For more details, kindly come back to us tomorrow. We cannot say much about his burial arrangements yet, but he will be laid to rest in Zimbabwe. We are still waiting to hear from those handling arrangements in South Africa.”
Mourners have been gathering at the family home, number 1976 Nketa 8, in Bulawayo. Reports suggest Ndoro was alone at the time of his death.
Ndoro, winner of the 2013 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Golden Boot and a Soccer Star of the Year finalist, played 14 times for Zimbabwe, scoring five goals. He also starred for Orlando Pirates in South Africa, who paid tribute on Tuesday.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former striker, Tendai Ndoro,” the club said in a statement.
“The club extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
What privacy is being asked for here? Tendai Ndoro was a football player in life and remains a football player in death. We came to know him through football, a game played in the public space. We flocked to see him play. We cheered him on and he improved his career. He became a public figure. The family was excited about how football supporters revered him. Why can’t we be allowed to continue this trend even in his death?