PUMA celebrates legendary footballer Doc Khumalo on his 58th birthday.
The German apparel will celebrate former Kaizer Chiefs star’s contribution in soccer in SA, by re-releasing his iconic ”16V” boots, that were popular in location during his hey-days.
It was normal to lay claim to the brand, see or be seen in ‘16V’ boots and that brushed off to your opponents.
He also played abroad, and had a short spell as AmaKhosi coach.
“PUMA has a near 40-year relationship with Doc dating to the 1980s, and we have brought the boot back to celebrate his illustrious legacy,” said Brett Bellinger, PUMA SA Marketing Director.
The Dube born, Soweto and former Bafana Bafana skipper, who scored memorable goals during his ‘pony-tail’ hair days, is also a PUMA ambassador.
“On the pitch Doc was a fearless artist who knew instinctively his greatness began with the courage to be true to himself. So, while many great footballers are respected for their talent, Doc is one of those select few who is loved,” continued Bellinger.
The PUMA Doctor Khumalo “16V” signature football boot is the one Doc wore during his stellar career and takes its place beside the ever-popular Jomo Sono King, as PUMA pays tribute to another most celebrated football ambassadors in mzansi.
Currently he keeps himself busy playing for Chiefs legends and conducting coaching clinics nationally. He’s a soccer analyst on SABC Sport.
Till this day, PUMA and Doc are in sync.
It will be available from PUMA.com, PUMA Retail stores, Studio 88, Totalsports and independent stores for R899.
Ed Note. And yes, during my soccer days in Soweto, my Gran bought me the pair, since I was plying my trade for what was then called Kaizer Chiefs u/19 Colts.
I was the talk of town in my hood Naledi, and no-one cleaned or touched those boots, except this lowly newsman.
At that time it was a battle of either Jomo Sono King or ‘16V’ boots on the field or nothing, as worn by the likes of Manyathi, Molatedi, Mooki and Maphike boys, under the tutelage of his late father ‘Bra Pro’ Elkiam Khumalo, and ‘Bra’ Ryder Mofokeng.
Doctor Thiophilus Khumalo had not responded for a comment, following the news, at the time of publishing.
Happy 58th birthday Mntungwa!
Image supplied PUMA (Doctor ‘16V’ Khumalo recorded with re-release of his iconic ”16V” boot).
