Johannesburg - Former South African Football Association (SAFA) National Executive Committee (NEC) member Olehile Manong died on Sunday.
Manong died after a long illness according to a statement from SAFA.
He served on the SAFA NEC from 2001-2005 under the presidency of Molefi Oliphant.
SAFA President, Kirsten Nematandani, hailed Manoni's contribution to South African football.
"I learnt of his passing on with great sadness," said Nematandani.
"He contributed a lot to the development of soccer in his region and nationally. This is a major blow for South African soccer."
Former SAFA President, Oliphant spoke highly of Manone.
"Olehile played a leading role in the football administration of the Northern Cape and the time he spent in the NEC was invaluable," Oliphant said.
"He also played a significant role in the unity of football in the Northern Cape."
"He was the permanent Head of Delegation for the Men's Under 23 National Team during his tenure in the NEC and will mostly be remembered for his leadership when the team qualified for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games."