adminMzingaye Sibanda Sports Reporter
THE Bulawayo Soccer Referees’ Association lost a third member in as many months on Saturday when death robbed it of Jonathan Phiri.
He was 26.Phiri was a Class Three referee.
He died after a short illness at United Bulawayo Hospitals barely a month after the death of Kenny Moyo and Mike Mpofu who passed on in February.
Moyo was now officiating in Division One while Mpofu was formerly part of the Zifa panel but had been sidelined after the Centralgate scandal.
Bulawayo referees’ co-ordinator Kefas Chokuda said Phiri was one of the most promising young referees. He described him as someone who was still rising.
“He was a very disciplined young man, he was still rising through the ranks and one of those earmarked for promotion because he was doing well. This has come as a shock to all of us, we would like to extend our condolences to his family,” said Chokuda.
Phiri joined the referees body last year after turning out for the Triangle FC reserve side.
After failing to make the grade in the Lowveld he moved to Bulawayo to pursue a refereeing career.
Michael Phiri, for the family, said the passing on of Jonathan had left a void.
“He was still rising in his trade and also one of those who were aiming to be upgraded to Division Two this year, it comes as a great loss to the family,” he said.
Jonathan was laid to rest yesterday at West Park Cemetery.
Online Reporter