Truter Urges Players to Learn from Mogaila Incident
Richards Bay coach, Brandon Truter, has expressed sadness over the recent incident involving Sekhukhune United player, Shaune Mogaila. Mogaila is alleged to have been involved in a fatal car accident.
Before Thursday’s training session, Truter addressed his players, urging them to be mindful of their off-field behavior. He emphasized the importance of being role models and making responsible choices.
Mogaila is facing charges of culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving, and fleeing the scene of the accident, which tragically claimed the life of a nine-year-old girl. Her mother and another child were also injured in the incident.
Despite being scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, Mogaila did not attend.
Truter reflected on the incident and the lessons to be learned: “There are so many examples out there from previous generation,” said Truter.
“I think the previous generation made every mistake possible even the older guys as well. The key for me here is learning from it and recognizing the temptation that is out there.
“They are constantly in the spotlight, they are entertainers, the media is surrounding them as well and that pressure should have a positive outlet, it should not be alcohol or substance abuse, that’s where the family comes in, that’s where your circle friends come in.
“You need to be mindful about your association because when it is happy days everyone is happy. When it is not so happy, you find one or two only stick around advising you.
“But what happened to Shaune, allegedly, our thought is with him as well as his family and the people that passed on and those who got injured in the accident as well.
“Stories around, rumours around, I hope and pray that it doesn’t have a negative impact on his career.”
With the festive season approaching, Truter appealed to sports stars to prioritize their well-being and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. He stressed the importance of financial management and making wise decisions: “But for the greater South Africa, not just footballers, or all youngsters in sport, please look after yourself,” urged Truter.
“Remuneration you are getting in every sports –whether its rugby, football, cricket, it’s huge and that’s when the finance managing side come in, not to spending on things that might not hurt your body or things like that.
“So, look after yourself and no succumb to temptations.”
Truter made these comments while his team prepared for their Carling Knockout quarter-final match against Cape Town City at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday.
