Makhado - Mayor of the Makhado local municipality in the Limpopo Province, Shonisani Sinyosi, has rewarded Polokwane City striker Rodney Ramagalela with an amount of R15 000 following his exploits in the 2017/18 Absa Premiership campaign.

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Born and bred at Mamvuka Nzhelele in the Vhembe District, Ramagalela finished the season as the joint leading goal scorer with 11 goals alongside Percy Tau of Mamelodi Sundowns to claim the prestigious Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot.

Ramagalela, 29, was the first footballer from the Limpopo Province to win the esteemed individual accolade since the late Lesley "Slow-Poison" Manyathela did so back in the 2002/03 season while playing for Orlando Pirates (finding the back of the net 18 times).

"Rama-G" as Ramagalela is affectionately known, expressed his delight by stating the mayor's recognition will serve as a huge motivational factor for him to continue striving for excellence and raise the municipality flag high heading forward.

"It came as a surprise to me, I didn’t expect it. I just got an invitation from the mayor's office and I never expected that they want to reward me," Ramagalela explained.

"But it is a great feeling to be recognised for your hard work by your own local municipality and I am really grateful to the Makhado Local Municipality, and I also believe that this will also motivate the upcoming athletes from our district."

Sinyosi has insisted that the R15 000 cheque was a token of appreciation following Ramagalela’s outstanding performance in the top flight of South African football.

"We value his talent as the municipality and we wanted to encourage other young people to work very hard and follow their talent. Rodney (Ramagalela) has put us on the map and we’re proud of him." Sinyosi said.

Sinyosi also stages her Mayoral Soccer Tournament around Makhado Local Municipality annually as a way to motivate young people to make a career in sports.