A Kaizer Chiefs legends XI talks about Kaizer Motaung, about the way he inspired them, educated them, guided them or was simply a role model. Today, Thursday 16 October 2014, is the Amakhosi Chairman’s 70th birthday.

Herman ‘Pelé’ Blaschke (Kaizer XI in 1969, Kaizer Chiefs 1970-1978)

“I was the first ‘import’ to the Kaizer XI. He was patient, because the first time I was sent the money to come from Namibia to South Africa, I ate the money. However, soon Kaizer came to fetch me. At first, I stayed with Banks Sethlodi and Ace Ntsoelengoe at the house of Kaizer’s parents in Phefeni. He inspired all of us, especially the way the team was organised. Kaizer has a brilliant eye for talent. But also, he created a family, it wasn’t just a soccer team… It was like a family, there was never any jealousy among the players or a person talking bad behind somebody else’s back. Happy Birthday and thanks for everything you have done for me.”

Johannes ‘Ryder’ Mofokeng (Kaizer Chiefs, 1975-1985)

“As we wake up to this beautiful day, it is to the nod of the greatest birthday. I am lost for words to describe the Chairman. I might as well write a book. Bra K… You have been a teammate, a brother, a guardian and a father to me. May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with you on this special day. Happy birthday and have a super day!”

Frank ‘Jingles’ Pereira (Kaizer Chiefs, 1979-1983)

“What can I say. Kaizer was always outstanding as the boss for the players. He inspired all of us. A man of honour and that’s also why he has been so successful in building the Club into an empire. Kaizer’s word is his honour. He runs Kaizer Chiefs like a business, but always in a straight and honourable way. And unlike other clubs those days, the Amakhosi players were always paid in full and on time. I am proud to have been part of Chiefs’ history. I will be seventy next year, so I am one year behind Kaizer. I hope you can keep up the flag for many years to come. A big hug for your birthday.”

Absalom ‘Scara’ Thindwa (Kaizer Chiefs, 1985-1993)

“Kaizer means so much to me. I still remember how he came to Swaziland to sign me in 1985. He taught me so much, advice that I still use today. For instance, when you employ someone, there needs to be a contract. And, Kaizer always lived up to it. At some other clubs players would have problems with payment, but never at Kaizer Chiefs. In 2009, I founded the Scara Thindwa Foundation. I wanted Kaizer to be at the launch in Swaziland. However, I was afraid that he would be too busy to attend. However, he came, even paying for the trip himself. He’s like a brother to me. Happy Birthday!”

Howard Freese (Kaizer Chiefs, 1985-1993)

“In 1970 you embarked on a journey that has brought many tears of joy to both young and old. Across the length and breadth of our country and from Cape to Cairo you have built an organisation and set standards that has made the country proud. Today every young footballer dreams of wearing the famous Gold and Black, while all those who have had the privilege of being part of the team still tell their stories of the many famous victories. All this would not have been possible without you. Today as you celebrate your 70th birthday you can relax, knowing that you have brought joy and happiness to millions of soccer loving people. Happy birthday Kaizer and God Bless You.”

Shane MacGregor (Kaizer Chiefs, 1987-1994)

“Kaizer is probably one of the few true gentlemen in South African soccer. His honesty stands out. If Kaizer promises you something, he will do it. His word is gold. Kaizer’s passion for the Club is something special. That’s also why the Club is where it is today. And if you do well for the team, he will always reward you. What a brilliant man!”

Gardner Seale (Kaizer Chiefs, 1989-1995)

“Happy 70th birthday to the Chairman. To be honest, he looks a lot younger. I knew Kaizer from the time I joined Kaizer Chiefs’ Under-13s. He played a father role to me and he monitored my every move. He did the same with Doctor Khumalo, with whom I played at the development level. Even when I was loaned out to Blackpool, he continued monitoring me, making sure that my dream would be fulfilled. It was the Chairman who eventually got me back, not any coach. He still inspires me a lot. Kaizer played with my uncle, ‘Big Boy’ Kholoane. What impresses me most is the way he conducts himself as the Chairman, bosses from other clubs can learn from him. May Kaizer still have a long life in front of him.”

Patrick Mabedi (Kaizer Chiefs, 1998-2006)

“Kaizer is a father to me. He made me into what I am. I still vividly remember that when my father in Malawi got sick, he was going blind, Kaizer helped me to get a doctor. He supported and encouraged me. How many people would have done that? However, that’s the person Kaizer is. In recent years I got my Uefa A and B coaching licence and I am going to do my Pro licence. Without Kaizer’s support I wouldn’t have done that. He was the one who motivated me. He is a role model and that’s also why I hope that he will have many years to come, so that also our children can learn from him. Enjoy a lovely birthday!”

Cyril Nzama (Kaizer Chiefs, 2000-2008)

“The Chairman has done so much for the Club and the country. Some, including me, he gave the opportunity to play for South Africa’s biggest team. His leadership qualities are unequalled. I learnt from the Chairman to be a good leader. For instance, for many years I was the captain of the team. Kaizer gave me the confidence to deal with the many egos in a squad and thanks to his guidance I learnt how to resolve those kinds of issues. Happy birthday and many years to go in good health.”

Arthur ‘10111’ Zwane (Kaizer Chiefs, 2000-2010)

“Kaizer is like a father. I have grown as a person thanks to his support. One day, before training, when I still had my own team in the Vodacom League, I was told to go to the Chairman’s office. I was worried. ‘What did I do wrong?’, I thought. However, when I entered his room he just wanted to talk about a story he had read in the newspaper about my team. He complimented me on how well I was doing with this Vodacom league club. That’s how he is. Kaizer wants everybody to succeed in whatever they do. God has given me an opportunity to rub shoulders with the best. Happy Birthday and many years to come. Akhule angakhokhobe (you can grow old, but you must still walk like a young man)!’

Gerald Sibeko (Kaizer Chiefs, 2000-2012)

“Happy birthday Mr. Chairman. Your legacy to this Club is second to none. Your enthusiasm for this sport has made you the most well-known household name and rightly so. You have been a father figure to every player that has been at Kaizer Chiefs, treating everyone with respect. You are a true leader. Many happy returns of the day.”