The world of Malagasy sport is in mourning. Edmond Rakotoarivelo, better known as Master Ratafia, died at dawn on Sunday at the age of 96.
Edmond Rakotoarivelo died peacefully on Sunday at his home in Amboasarikely, near Antsahavola. Born on March 25, 1930, the man many considered a true living memory of Malagasy sport celebrated his 95th birthday last March, surrounded by his family and his favorite club, the Stade Olympique de l’Emyrne (SOE). Exceptional longevity, marked by an intact passion for sport and transmission.
Former emblematic basketball coach of the SOE, Master Ratafia was much more than a technician. An attentive observer and outstanding teacher, he loved to share his experiences, his experiences and his view on the evolution of Malagasy basketball.
During his jubilee last year, he recalled with emotion one of his fondest memories: a memorable victory against the formidable Sotema team in a triangular match. Beaten in the first clash, the SOE players overturned all predictions in the final. “From then on, the Emyrne Olympic Stadium reigned over Malagasy basketball,” he confided with pride.
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Trainer of generations
A tutelary figure in national basketball, Edmond Rakotoarivelo leaves behind an invaluable sporting and human legacy. SOE President Solofo Mendrika Rasendrahasina gave a poignant testimony: “I learned much more than basketball from him. He trained us both physically and morally. For him, sport and studies were inseparable. No matter the size of the opponent, we win if we dare to fight. »
Deeply religious, Master Ratafia has always placed faith and human values at the center of his commitment. Many young people he supervised went on to shine in various sectors: doctors, magistrates, teachers or researchers.
A legend of SOE and Malagasy sport in general, Edmond Rakotoarivelo first devoted his youth to rugby, particularly rugby union, where he was a member of the national team, before making a lasting mark on basketball.
His rigor and sense of organization led him to be appointed general secretary of the SOE in 1954 by Marius Randranto, then president of the club.
A respected coach, he raised the colors of Malagasy basketball, notably with the women’s national team, present at the Francophonie Games in Morocco, the Indian Ocean Islands Games in Mauritius in 1985, during a tour in China and at the African championships in Dakar.
Despite this exceptional career, his only official recognition remains a Knight of Merit medal.
sports, handed over during the Ratsiraka era by the Prime Minister at the time, Pascal Rakotomavo. For Bayard Razafindralambo, basketball coach, “he was a rare gem, with a unique gift for transmitting the love of the orange ball. He gave everything without ever demanding anything in return.”
With the disappearance of Master Ratafia, a major page in the history of Malagasy basketball is turning.
