MR LUCAS MASTERPIECES MORIPE – A TRIBUTE TO A TRUE ICON OF FOOTBALL
By Viny Motaung
Spokesperson of the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Foundation
Mr Lucas Masterpieces Moripe – A Tribute to a True Icon of Football
Atteridgeville Tshwane/Pretoria 20 November 2024- It is with deep sorrow that The Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Foundation announce the passing of one of football’s greatest legends, Mr Lucas Masterpieces Moripe, who passed away on 19 November 2024 at 23h30 at the Kalafong Hospital in Thswane at the age of 74.
Mr Lucas Masterpieces Moripe’s contribution to the beautiful game, both on the field and beyond, has left an indelible mark on football history and the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
Throughout an illustrious career Mr Lucas Masterpieces Moripe captivated audiences with his extraordinary talent, unmatched skill, and unwavering dedication to the sport.
A true ambassador of the game, he represented South Africa as Ambassador of the Confederations Cup 2009 and Soccer World Cup 2010.
Where did it all startUB Football Club-He was recruited from Blackpool by Hans Sporting Club that was owned by Mr Joey Mokone.
TEAMS PLAYED FOR
Bantu Callies lately Pretoria Callies he joined in 1971 at the age of 21
Orlando Pirates in 1981
Caroline Hill Hong Kong in 1974
Arcadia Shepherds (guest player)
He played in the South Africa Black XI against the British All Stars Xi led by Rodney Marsh with the likes of Dr Kaizer Motaung, Dr Jomo Sono, Coach Shakes Mashaba etc.
The same year he was scouted `by Caroline Hill in Hong Kong.
Awards & Accolades
1972/73 he was awarded the NPSL League most converted Player of the Year Award.
A street in Atteridgeville is named after him and the famous Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville
He met Pele the great in Hong Kong personally in 1974 during Coca Cola soccer clinics.
Mr Lucas Masterpieces Moripe was a defining figure in the history of South African soccer and his impact transcended the sport, inspiring generations of soccer fans alike.
In this time of loss, the football community and fans around the world mourn the passing of Mr Lucas Moripe he will be remembered not only for his] remarkable achievements, but for the joy, passion, humbleness and pride he brought to the sport.
The family appreciate the support and love that South Africans showed to the legend through the years and further details regarding funeral arrangements and tributes will be shared in the coming days.
Our thoughts and condolences are with the Moripe family, children’s friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his presence.
The soccer fraternity has lost a true legend, and we will forever cherish
the memories Masterpieces has given us.