Asinamali epitomized loyalty and reliability

 

 

The nickname “Asinamali” was given to Jackie Masike by then Kaizer Chiefs manager Ewert Nene, a name which would come to define Masike’s legacy both on and off the pitch.

 

The moniker, meaning “we have no money” in Zulu, reflected Masike’s uncompromising nature and determination, both as a player and as a person.

 

Many believe that the nickname was inspired by the political war cry of the masses during a time of economic hardship in South Africa. In the 1960s, the country was in the grips of apartheid, with widespread protests and boycotts taking place.

 

One such boycott was of public transportation when the bus fare was increased by one penny from Alexander township to Johannesburg, leading to the rallying cry of “we shall not board the busses” because “Asinamali” – we have no money.

 

Alternatively, Masike himself later alluded to the fact that when he approached Nene for a raise in his salary, the manager simply responded with “Asinamali,” implying that the club could not afford to pay him more.

 

This rejection only served to fuel Masike’s determination, as he continued to give his all for Kaizer Chiefs on the field. Masike was a legend and stalwart of the Chiefs defense, known for his no-nonsense style of play and fierce loyalty to the club.

 

He was a player who gave his all in every match, always willing to put his body on the line for the team. Despite being a defender, Masike also had a knack for scoring crucial goals, often popping up to net the winning goal in tense matches.

 

Off the pitch, Masike was known for his humility and generosity. Some claim he was the club’s “clever,” and was the only “Pantsula” in a team of “hippies” who believed in love and peace!

 

Yet despite his tough exterior and demeanor, he was a role model for many young players, always willing to offer advice and support to those who looked up to him.

 

He embodied the spirit of the club, giving everything, he had for the team and the fans. Sadly, Masike passed away on Thursday, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

 

“Simon “Bull” Lehoko, Frank “Jingles” Perreira, Johannes “Ryder” Mofokeng, Gabriel “Tiekie” Khoza, Ariel “Pro” Kgongoane, Elkim “Pro” Khumalo – men that he shared defensive duties with at Chiefs are no and have all gone the way of the flesh.

 

Now Jackie joins them in the hereafter, where they will probably engage in animated conversations about how it used to be when they performed their duties just in front of Joseph “Banks” Setlhodi.

 

His nickname, “Asinamali,” serves as a reminder of his resilience and determination, both as a player and as a person. Though he may have faced hardships and setbacks along the way, Masike never gave up, always pushing forward with the same passion and commitment that made him a fan favorite.

 

In the end, Masike’s legacy is not just one of a talented footballer, but of a man who embodied the spirit of perseverance and determination. His nickname may have reflected tough times, but Masike never let it define him.

 

Instead, he used it as fuel to drive him forward, always striving to be the best player and person he could be. And for that, he will always be remembered as a true legend of Kaizer Chiefs. May his soul rest in eternal peace!