MOVING FORWARD W/ ELEAZAR RODGERS

MOVING FORWARD WITH ELEAZAR RODGERS

Tribute to VINCENT ANDREW RODGERS

BY Eleazar Rogers

I am a fortunate and proud son of Vincent Rodgers, who was well known to many as a soccer legend. My Dad was a God-fearing man, anyone who experienced a glimpse of his life, would agree that he did everything in his power to love and serve our family. My father lead by example. He was an exceptionally humble man. He was born on 24 / 06 / 1954. He adopted the name “Slappes”, because of his flexible and acrobatic ability as a goal keeper. Many thought he had exceptional talent , he even received a call up to WP and a stint as semipro with Cape Town United which bears testimony of his talented skills. During 1972 he instilled so much confidence in his team, that they were able to achieve 5 trophies during his tenure! Unfortunately my father lost the use of his fingers during an accident at work at the peak of his career. I know he would have been one of the great legends in South Africa, to me he definitely was and still is!

Vincent Rodger’s i n v o l v e m e n t with Ebenezer Congregational Church was the start of a new life in Christ. My father was saved in 1980 and surrendered his life to Christ with complete devotion. He served as a Sunday school facilitator at Ebenezer and further represented the church on the Regional Children’s Ministry Committee. He was the second eldest son of his Mother Mary Rodgers and his late Father Robert Rodgers. My Dad also had a good tenor voice, and his overall favourite sung song was The Lighthouse. During his Christian walk with Christ, he was a servant and also served on the Nooiensfontein wards as a Deacon. It’s quite clear that he left an undeniable impact wherever he went and wherever he served.

The memories of my Dad was recognising the way he conducted himself around people, with complete humility and a servant heart. He worked as a Welder assuring that the work was done with great quality. Some of my fondest memories were the times I went to watch him play or referee soccer matches, he was completely committed and passionate about soccer, this sparked up something within me. I decided to follow in his footsteps by adopting his professional attitude towards the game. Since I have implemented them well I was able to achieve more than I ever dreamed of within South African football. I played professionally for 14 years including national level at under 23 and Bafana Bafana.

Vincent Rodgers leaves behind – His wife Magdeline Rodgers, My mother Eleanor Rodgers, His children Oriole Hamman , Ryan Rodgers , Crystal Jacobs, Eleazar Rodgers and Darryl Rodgers. He as our father will forever be in our hearts.

Many people had the honour of knowing my Dad and have sent countless messages of tributes which iterates how treasured and respected he was and as a family we are sincerely grateful and thankful for these messages of hope.

I n c o n c l u s i o n , a v e r s e o f encouragement and peace, John 14:1-3 “Let not your heart be troubled” ... and thou will keep in perfect peace whose eyes is kept on Thee. I will forever keep my eyes on Thee (The Lord Jesus Christ) and be grateful for the time spent with you here on earth. I will continue the race for you Daddy and continue the legacy by inspiring and encouraging as many as I can while I still have time! Thank you Daddy I will Love you always, from your son Eleazar Rodgers.