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According to family members, Chirape had not been in good health for the past month.
“It is a big loss to the refereeing fraternity. We will miss his experience. He was an inspiration, particularly to the upcoming youngsters,’’ said Thabani Mkantsho, the runner-up to the 2005 Referee of the Year Award.
Chirape had made it into the 2006 ZIFA Panel to officiate in Premiership matches this year. He made his refereeing debut in 1992 in a match between Highlanders and Black Mambas. His good interpretation of the game and the application of soccer rules earned him great respect.
Moreover, he was known as a no-nonsense man dealing with all players without fear or favour, an element that seem to be lacking in most of the African referees.
Chirape is survived by his wife Rebecca, five children and three grandchildren. – CAJ News.