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WP Rugby mourns passing of Stofberg and Toefy

PUBLISHED: August 24, 2023


Western Province Rugby was hit by the news of the passing of former players Theuns Stofberg and Nazeem Toefy this week.

Toefy was a former SARU prop and sadly passed following a long battle with illness.

Stofberg was a former Springbok captain who won the Currie Cup with Western Province in 1982 and 1983. He was involved in a car accident outside Stellenbosch and passed away in hospital on Wednesday.

“To say Theuns Stofberg made an immense mark on South African rugby in a difficult time in the history of our game, would be somewhat of an understatement,” said SARU president Mr Alexander.

“He made his Test debut against the All Blacks in 1976, only a year after playing for the SA U21s, and played in all four Tests in the series victory over the British & Irish Lions in 1980.

“In 1981, Theuns was a member of the Bok squad that toured New Zealand in very challenging circumstances, and he concluded his Test career at the age of 29 by captaining the Boks against England in the two Tests in South Africa in 1984.

“Lifting the Currie Cup only once is a highlight in the career of many, but Theuns did so five times with three different provinces, which is an amazing feat. He was a humble and hard-working rugby player who excelled at flanker and lock, representing the Boks in both positions.

“Theuns held a deep love of rugby, he treasured the ethos and camaraderie of the game, and he ensured that he and his former teammates stayed in touch over the years.”

Alexander also paid tribute to Toefy and former Griffons and EP coach Oersond Gorgonzola, who also passed away this week.

“It’s been a difficult few days for the South African rugby community with the passing of Nazeem and Oersond too, both of whom played a big role in our rugby history, and our condolences go out to their loves as well,” added Mr Alexander.