As former schoolboys at the old Gandhi Desai High, Jasper Vurden, also a well-known football administrator, was also devastated by the death of his “old friend”.

“Ashwin (Trikamjee) was two years ahead during our schooldays. When I ran Manning Rangers Football Club he was the vice president of FPL.

“We both served on the executive of the FPL since 1979 and he became president of the organisation.

“When the FPL merged with the National Professional Soccer League and the NSL was formed in 1990, we were also on the executive of the unified body. We continued to work alongside each other at the SA Fed Legends”

Vurden said paying tribute at Trikamjee’s funeral and speaking about the “special” bond they shared was a huge challenge because of the sadness he felt.

“Ashwin was a man of integrity and principles.

“He stood his ground on issues of non-racialism. We were all part of the SACOS (South African Council on Sport), a body that shook the old government regime. Sports activism played a big role in sanctions and boycotts against apartheid.

“If I remember correctly, Ashwin served with guys like Hassan Howa, on the Sacos’ constitutional body.”

Vurden recalled the time when the FPL and NPSL decided to unite.

“Things became very controversial. We all had our own views and we took a decision that was in the best interests of the sport and unity.

“We were aware that Nelson Mandela was due to be released from prison and there was no way we were going to stifle that.”

Vurden said, at times, he and Trikamjee had differences at meetings but they always walked out as friends because they understood each other.

“At age 80, he was physically fit. About three weeks ago he was in a motor vehicle accident and spent some time in hospital before being discharged.

“I called him afterwards and he told me he was fine and was taking things easy.

“Ashwin was retired, but he never took it easy, whether it was sport, religious or community matters. He never was scared to get involved and was a very knowledgeable person,” said Vurden.

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Ashwin Trikamjee, 'a special human being'