Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, has shared heartfelt condolences following the passing of former Springbok wing Andy van der Watt at the age of 78. Known for his exceptional speed and talent, Van der Watt left an indelible mark on South African rugby. The tribute highlights his remarkable achievements, his dedication to the sport, and his lasting impact on both the rugby community and his school, Hilton College, where he dedicated 37 years to teaching and coaching.
Mark Alexander , President of SA Rugby , has paid tribute to former Springbok wing Andy van der Watt who died on Sunday at the age of 78. Van der Watt, who was born in Krugersdorp but finished his schooling in KwaZulu-Natal, was once described as “the fastest wing to play for the Springboks ”, with a time of 10.4 seconds his best in the 100m dash.
Following the completion of his school career at Maritzburg College, Van der Watt – who was born on 10 October 1946 – spent a year at the Air Force in Pretoria before moving to Stellenbosch University, where he studied physical education and played for Maties from 1967 to 1971. In 1969, he scored twice for WP and a hat-trick for the Gazelles (SA U23) against the touring Wallabies, after which he was included in the Springbok squad for the UK tour at the end of that season. Van der Watt played three Tests for South Africa on the UK tour of in 1969/70, and played most of his provincial rugby for Western Province, but also featured for Border and the Sharks, then still called Natal. He also toured Australia in 1971 and finished with 14 tries in a total of 22 matches in the Green and Gold. 'Andy van der Watt was very fast and strong for a wing and had a great eye for space, which made him a tough prospect for opposition defences,' said Alexander. 'He will be remembered as a very modest man but when he donned his rugby boots, he became very determined, and he never gave anything but his best to any team he represented. ' After hanging up his boots, Van der Walt went into teaching and spent 37 years at Hilton College in the KZN midlands, where he also ploughed back into the game by coaching rugby, which included the school’s first team. 'On behalf of the South African rugby family, I would like to pass on our condolences to Vere, his wife of over 50 years, their children, other family and friends in this time of bereavement – may you find solace in the memories of a great man.
Andy Van Der Watt Springboks Rugby SA Rugby Mark Alexander Hilton College Western Province
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