Rugby news from Western Province:
WPRFU pays tribute to Northerns RFC legend Joepie Swartz:
The Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU) was saddened to learn of the passing of former Northerns RFC captain and chairman Joepie Swartz this week.
Swartz was a fearsome player in the early 1980s, representing Western Province in the Gold Cup and playing for the Western Province League Craven Week team in 1980 and 1981 before going on to play for the Western Province League senior team.
After his playing days, Swartz continued to serve Northerns RFC admirably as chairman and his presence will be dearly missed at both the rugby club and in the community.
He sadly passed away on Saturday at the age of 60.
WPRFU president Zelt Marais said that Swartz will be dearly missed.
“Another giant has fallen, and is always very difficult to say farewell. Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Swartz family and the members of Northerns Rugby Club.
“May the Almighty comfort and strengthen the family during this difficult time of bereavement.
May Joepie Swartz’s soul rest in eternal peace and light perpetual shine upon him,” he said.
