The South African football fraternity is mourning the tragic loss of former Bafana Bafana striker Alton Meiring, who died at the age of 48 after being stabbed.
The news of his death was confirmed by his most recent club Luso Africa. While details surrounding the incident remain scarce, it's understood that Meiring was involved in an altercation with a tenant at one of his properties, resulting in his fatal stabbing.
Meiring enjoyed a distinguished career spanning several top-flight South African clubs. He represented Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Jomo Cosmos, Golden Arrows, and Hellenic, showcasing his talent and versatility across various teams.
A remarkable statistic, highlighted by Opta Jabu, reveals Meiring as the only player in Premier Soccer League history to score at least one league goal for nine different clubs. His two caps for Bafana Bafana further cement his place in South African football history.
Following his retirement over a decade ago, Meiring remained deeply involved in the sport, dedicating his time to coaching. His most recent role was with Luso Africa Football Club in Johannesburg, where he made a significant impact across various age groups.
Luso Africa's social media post paid tribute to his contributions: "It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of coach Alton Meiring. He has been a big supporter of our club, contributing to multiple teams over the last few seasons, from juniors to seniors, and even our ladies' team. We are deeply grateful for his knowledge and assistance. Please keep his family in your prayers."
Luso Africa chairman of football, Joe da Silva, spoke of Meiring's profound influence on the club, highlighting his exceptional coaching skills and the deep affection he held for the players, particularly the younger ones.
"The parents loved him. Our girls players, yesterday, were crying," he said and emphasised the immeasurable loss felt by the club.
"He is a helluva loss. They're going to miss him, because he has really helped them develop. He is a very good development coach. He is going to be missed terribly. He is a big loss. His advice to youngsters in terms of how to attack and score goals was invaluable."
Miquela da Silva, Luso Africa spokesperson and daughter of the chairman, provided further details about Meiring's involvement with the club, explaining his journey from assisting the ABC Motsepe League team to coaching across virtually all age groups, including the women's teams.
"He started with our Castle League (ABC Motsepe League) team essentially, so was with us for two-and-a-half years," she explained.
"His brother is a coach here as well, his kids have been playing here for a few years now, too. So, he was just generally around. He eventually became a coach to every team, essentially. He would help the coaches in the various age groups and the seniors. Literally, any age group, he would slot in."
Miquela da Silva confirmed the tragic circumstances of Meiring's death, stating that he had been stabbed following an altercation with a tenant he was assisting. She revealed that the club chairman learned of the news via a WhatsApp status message, prompting immediate verification.
"Somebody had sent him (her father and the club chairman) a message on WhatsApp status and [he] asked me whether it is true, and I said that I am not too sure. One of our coaches went up to his house and confirmed his passing," she recounted.
The news of Meiring's passing has prompted widespread tributes from across the football community. Magesi Football Club shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing their condolences to Meiring's family and Cape Town Spurs.
The Good Party also released a statement mourning the loss of the former Bafana Bafana striker, acknowledging his contributions both on and off the field. SAFA also offered its sincere condolences to Meiring's family and friends.
Alexi Efstathiou, the current CEO of Cape Town Spurs (formerly Ajax Cape Town), where Meiring played 51 matches scoring 17 goals, expressed his shock and sadness at the news.
"I am shocked to hear the news. I am not too sure what transpired. From our club, condolences to the family. Crime has gone out of control in this country, and it is sad when you have to hear this stuff…He was with us when we took over the club, if I recall correctly, from 1995. I think (South Africa goalkeeper) Moeneeb Josephs was still here. He did well for the club and was a hard worker as far as I can remember," he said.
Alton Meiring's untimely death leaves a void in South African football. His legacy extends beyond his impressive playing career, encompassing his dedication to nurturing young talent and his unwavering commitment to the sport he loved. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
