“Bra Shakes Changed My Career” — Emotional Tribute To Mashaba Emerges

Former South African footballer Thabiso Rammile has paid tribute to Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba, reflecting on the influential role the veteran coach played during an important stage of his career.

Rammile’s comments come at a difficult time for Mashaba, who has been dealing with serious health challenges. In June 2026, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile visited Mashaba at his home and publicly wished the respected football figure a speedy recovery. Government also appealed for support for the former Bafana Bafana coach and his family.

Mashaba’s influence on South African football stretches across several generations, and Rammile is among the players who benefited from his guidance.

The former defender was part of Mashaba’s South African Under-23 side that competed at the prestigious Toulon tournament in France in 2002. Rammile featured alongside several players who would go on to establish themselves in professional football.

That period proved significant in Rammile’s development, giving him valuable exposure at international youth level while working under one of the country’s experienced coaches.

Rammile subsequently enjoyed a career that included spells with clubs such as Maritzburg United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Bloemfontein Celtic and Thanda Royal Zulu. He also represented Bafana Bafana.

His latest tribute therefore carries particular weight, as it highlights the lasting impact Mashaba had on players who came through his teams.

Mashaba’s current health battle has prompted messages of support from across South Africa’s football community. His daughter, Nonhlanhla Mashaba, previously appealed for assistance as the family dealt with mounting medical expenses and the challenges associated with his treatment. TimesLIVE reported in June that Mashaba was receiving treatment for tuberculosis while also dealing with a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The response has included support from football figures, members of the public and government representatives. In July, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba also pledged R200,000 towards supporting the former coach’s recovery.

For Rammile, however, the focus remains on the man who helped shape an important chapter of his football journey.

Mashaba has long been recognised for his work with South Africa’s national youth and senior teams. His coaching career included guiding young players who later became prominent figures in the domestic game.

Rammile’s tribute serves as another reminder of the coach’s influence beyond match results and trophies. For many former players, Mashaba was also a mentor who provided opportunities and helped young footballers navigate the demanding transition into professional football.

As Mashaba continues his recovery, messages such as Rammile’s underline the respect he continues to command within South African football.

The football community will now hope that the veteran coach can make further progress in his recovery and receive the support he needs during this challenging period.

https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2104983354948862121

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