Western Province Rugby has paid tribute to schools rugby stalwart Ephraim Appel, who sadly passed away this week.

Appel served on the executive committee of the WPSSSU (Western Province Senior Schools Sports Union) an affiliate of SASSSA (South African Senior Schools Sport Association) as part of the national high schools rugby committee.

Following the unification of Western Province High Schools in 1995 he served as an executive member and later became vice-chairman.

His contribution to schools rugby as convener made an impact to many educators and schools rugby players over the years.

Appel played for Progress RFC and was also a central figure for City and Suburban Rugby Football Union for many years.