Remembering Schalk Liebenberg: A legacy in KwaZulu-Natal rugby

IOL News

2 days ago

Tributes pour in for Schalk Liebenberg, whose dedication to rugby left an indelible mark on the sport.
Image: @Springboks/ X
Tributes continue to pour in for former SA Rugby Exco member and former KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union (KZNRU) president, Schalk Liebenberg, 67, who died on Friday.
Liebenberg played club rugby in KZN and other provinces, and also served the game as an administrator. In 2018, he became President of the KZNRU, having previously held positions as Junior Vice-President, Senior Vice-President, and Deputy President.
Liebenberg also distinguished himself with two years of service on SA Rugby's Exco.
Leading the tributes, SA Rugby President Mark Alexander said: 'From his early days as a club player, he built a career defined by loyalty and leadership. His insight and advocacy enriched national discussions and deepened SA Rugby's understanding of grassroots needs.
'Marked by steadfast commitment, integrity and an unwavering passion for the sport, Schalk shaped the vision of the KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union with conviction and compassion.
'He championed the development of club rugby, mentored countless emerging leaders and remained a fierce advocate for growing the game from the ground up. His legacy is woven into the fabric of rugby in this province and far beyond,' Alexander continued.
'We honour his memory not only for the positions he held, but for the purpose with which he served. His contribution will be remembered with gratitude, and his presence (will be) deeply missed.
'To Donnas and the Liebenberg family, their loved ones and friends, as well as the KZNRU, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. May the love and pride Schalk inspired bring you comfort in the days ahead.'
In a joint statement, the KZNRU and The Sharks extended their heartfelt condolences to Donnas, the Liebenberg family, friends, and the wider rugby community on Liebenberg's passing.
The KZNRU and The Sharks said Liebenberg bravely battled cancer with courage, and the news of his passing deeply saddened those who knew and worked with him. A respected figure in KZN rugby, Schalk was a passionate servant of the game who made an indelible impact on the development of rugby in KZN.
KZNRU President Graham MacKenzie said: 'We are deeply saddened by the passing of Schalk Liebenberg. Schalk was a true rugby man, committed and always driven by his love for the game.
'His contributions to the KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union and the greater South African rugby community will be remembered with great respect and admiration. He was passionate about growing the game at all levels. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time.'
On Facebook, Varsity College Rugby Club described Liebenberg as 'a passionate rugby man whose decades of service helped shape the game in our province. As President of KZRU, he championed development, inclusivity, and excellence — values that continue to inspire us at Varsity College.
'Many of our players, coaches, and staff benefited from Schalk's leadership and vision. His dedication to growing rugby at all levels, from grassroots to high performance, has left a lasting legacy that we will continue to honour both on and off the field.'
College Rovers Rugby Club said Liebenberg was a 'true club legend and a pillar in the rugby community.'
Amanzimtoti Rugby Club said Liebenberg's voice for rugby will always be remembered.
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