Thabiso Rammile Pays Tribute to Ephraim ‘Shakes’ Mashaba and Wishes Him a Speedy Recovery

• Thabiso Rammile opened up about the profound impact Ephraim 'Bra Shakes' Mashaba had on his football career
• Rammile recalled how Mashaba backed him for the SA U23 squad even though he was the only First Division player in the team
• The former player urged Mashaba to return to football, saying young players still need his experience and guidance

Thabiso Rammile has spoken warmly about Ephraim "Bra Shakes" Mashaba, crediting the veteran coach as a defining figure in his development as a footballer and calling for his swift return to health and to the game he has shaped for decades.

Speaking exclusively to the Siya crew, Rammile was candid about the depth of Mashaba's influence, saying his entire career was built on the foundation that the former coach helped lay.

## Rammile Reflects on Mashaba's Belief in Him

One particular moment stood out for Rammile: being selected for the South African U23 national team at a time when he was the only player in that squad competing in the First Division. Rather than overlooking him in favour of those from higher leagues, Mashaba pushed him harder.

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"I still remember there was a time when he coached the South African U23 team and I was the only player in the team who was playing in the First Division. He believed in me and would encourage me to work twice as hard because I was coming from a lower division compared to the other players in the team," Rammile said.

That vote of confidence, he explained, is something he has carried throughout his career.

"I am who I am and have achieved what I have achieved in my football career because of Bra Shakes," he added.

## A Plea for Mashaba's Return to Football

Beyond his personal gratitude, Rammile made a broader appeal, arguing that South African football cannot afford to lose Mashaba's wisdom at a time when the next generation of players still needs mentorship.

"We still need him in the game. There are still a lot of young players and people in football who would benefit from his experience. Bra Shakes has made a big difference in the lives of a lot of footballers, including myself," Rammile said.

Mashaba has been dealing with ongoing health issues, and Rammile's message was one of both gratitude and hope.

"It's so sad that he finds himself in his current situation after having done so much for South African football. I just want to wish him a very speedy recovery," he said, adding that he would love to see Mashaba back on his feet and involved in the game once more.

Source: Briefly News