“It was in 1995 after I came to South Africa with the Cameroon national team to play the Four Nations Cup tournament which was hosted by Bafana Bafana. After that I signed for Sundowns in January 1995 and we became very close friends. We developed a good relationship and I treated him like a big brother. He was always there when I needed him and he made sure that I was OK all the time,” the former player expressed. Bra Alex's love for all players, regardless of their stature, was truly unparalleled. He treated each one like they belonged, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that epitomized the spirit of Mamelodi Sundowns. Fuetmba recalls, “he was friendly with all the players – Raphael Chukwu had a good relationship with him, Mambush [Daniel Mudau] had a good relationship with him – he was friendly with everyone. Bra Alex treated youngsters the same way he treated senior players because he wanted all the players to know that they belong to Mamelodi Sundowns.”
Alex Shakoane, with a deep understanding of the very essence of Mamelodi Sundowns, breathed life into the ethos that made the club a true family. His unwavering dedication paved the way for legends to find a forever home within the Sundowns family, even after their playing days came to a close. He knew that a family's strength lies not only in the moments of triumph but also in how they embrace their own, even after the final whistle has blown.
For Mudau, Shakoane’s impact on his life goes beyond the football field; for he was a mentor; a father figure who cared deeply for those around him. In Mudau’s words, “Bra Alex had welcomed every employer at the club to make them feel at home.” His charisma radiated like a warm embrace, making him a cherished figure not just among the players but also in the hearts of every community member. According to Mudau, Bra Alex was a man of his word, punctuality and loyalty ingrained in his very being. When he said a meeting was at 08h00, you'd find him there an hour before, ready to lead with wisdom and integrity. When it's all said and done the great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it. Such was the Life of Bra Alex Goldfinger Shakaone. As the hearts of Masandawana family and the nation at large continue to ache with the void left by his passing. Let us find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and shaped. Bra Alex, your wisdom, your love, and your laughter will forever echo in our hearts. May your soul rest in power, and may we carry the torch of your teachings as we continue our journey, forever inspired by your remarkable spirit. From the Masandawana Family, Thank you, ‘Bra Alex,’ for the gift of your presence; your imprint on Mamelodi Sundowns and the footballing world will never fade. You fought a good fight, finished your race and kept the faith. The onus is on us to carry the baton.