Kndly support the campaign to name the stands at our national stadiums, in honour of our erstwhile soccer heroes. With focus on those who played during the period before international readmission.

We hereby kindly request the Minister of Sports, the SA Football Association, in conjunction with the relevant municipalities, to spearhead a campaign to name the stands in our country's prominent soccer stadia in honour of our erstwhile soccer heroes who played the game during the dark days of apartheid.

These heroes were denied opportunities to ply their trade, make their names, and earn their fortunes abroad, due to international isolation.

As a result, they could not earn our national colours and participate in continental and global tournaments.

This gesture will represent our token of appreciation for the sense of pride and joy they brought in our lives, at the time when there was very little to enthuse about.

This will also serve to promote a culture of respect for these heroes among the younger generations, as well as recognition of the role they played in laying the foundation for the beautiful game we now so enjoy.

Nhlanhla Cele, a South African soccer lover!    Contact the author of the petition