Orlando Pirates has outlined the pledge that Thembinkosi Lorch has to recommit to as he returns from suspension.
The talented winger, Lorch, is now eligible to rejoin the DStv Premiership giants’ activities after serving a three-week suspension.
Pirates’ decision to suspend Lorch came after the footballer was found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Fundiswa Mathithibala.
Lorch received a three-year jail sentence which is suspended for five years on condition that he do not commit the same offence during the period of the suspension.
Lorch was also ordered to pay R100, 000 to People Opposing Women Abuse, a gender-based violence group.
After his sentencing, Lorch appeared before a Disciplinary Committee where he had to recommit to the pledge.
THE PLEDGE READ AS FOLLOWS:
At Orlando Pirates, we recognise:
a) That women are the base and children the future of our society.
b) That violence against women and children is like waging a war on ourselves as a nation.
Therefore, at Orlando Pirates we pledge:
a) To be vocal and speak out against violence targeted at women and children.
b) To be exemplary through our deeds and serve as role models.
c) To be supportive to women and children affected by violence.
“Like manners once did, violence is now shaping and obsessing our society. If we do not stop it, it will stop us, and our children will have a bleak future.
“Throughout his suspension period, Lorch demonstrated accountability for his previous actions and took substantial measures to address them. He willingly participated in a clinical evaluation and has committed to follow any recommended follow-up care.
“Furthermore, Lorch has expressed his steadfast dedication to personal growth and is fully cognisant of the repercussions should he falter.
“Thembinkosi Lorch has successfully completed his suspension and is now eligible to rejoin club activities, effective today.”
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