Bright the farmer and family man
Koketso Kgoboge | Friday January 29, 2021 15:47
He went to school in Mahalapye and like other children back in the day, he would walk in the bushes to his parents’ fields (masimo) to take up his shepherd duties and cultivate crops during the school holidays.
He lived his life as a soldier after joining the army in 1977 and later became a footballer. In all those years, he never strayed far from his farming background.
He travelled the world thanks largely to football, but ensured he made time to continue the legacy of his parents back in Pilikwe. The natives named Bright’s fields ‘ko Makutwaneng’ as his parents were of mixed race. Up until the time of his death, Bright was hands-on at the farm. Every opportunity away from football was either family or farm time.
He had goats and crops, and heartily invested most of his time in the ventures. ‘Madala’ as he was fondly known to many, ensured the farming legacy trickled to his children. He made it a family tradition that Christmas was celebrated at Tsholwane Farms and it was not optional. As a soldier, he had instilled the discipline in his children.
His son, Mogomotsi Bright said his father was not only strict, but a loving man who was also very supportive, and encouraged him and his siblings to work hard for themselves.
Mogomotsi said his late father, leaves them a disciplined bunch, responsible and independent individuals. He said he was supportive in their endeavours.
“As much as he worked hard for the nation, he always made time to ensure we made the right steps in life. He leaves us with a shelter, a farm and we are stable. That is what any child would wish for from their parents and we count ourselves lucky. He gave us tough lessons, but they helped us become independent adults,” Mogomotsi said. He added the former Zebras coach was as much of a father to them as he was to the nation. “We learnt to share him with the rest of the nation. He developed and built many careers and individuals who have grown into family men. This was fulfilling for him. He ran his race, and as much as it still pains me, I would encourage the nation to celebrate his life,” he said.
At his twilight, Bright was enjoying his life. He had ample time for the farm, and that is where his concentration was before he joined Sua Flamingoes. Bright met his demise before he could take full charge of Flamingoes with the start of the league still in doubt. He is survived by his wife, two sons, three daughters and two grandchildren.