One of the earliest milestones in his remarkable career was in 1992, at the USSASA Tournament in Upington. Garneth was both an official and coach of the Griqualand West rugby team, leading them to a resounding success. They triumphed over formidable opponents such as Boland, Border South, and Border North. The success was not just due to the players’ talents, but to the tireless dedication and guidance of Garneth and the coaches around him, who were all educators at heart, passionate about nurturing young talent.
After the unification of rugby in 1993, Garneth, alongside Steven Drude, became a household name in Kimberley and across the Griqualand West Primary Schools Rugby region. Together, they served on various boards and helped steer the course of rugby development in our region. Garneth’s roles extended beyond coaching; he was elected as a coach, selector, and later, Vice Chairman. In every position he held, he worked with dedication, humility, and a deep love for the game and its players.
His contributions were not limited to the field. Garneth served on the executive of the Griqualand West Rugby Union, specifically in the Primary Schools’ division, where his leadership and insights helped shape the future of rugby in our region. He was instrumental in the planning and execution of two monumental events: the 1999 and 2018 Craven Weeks, both of which Griqualand West had the honor of hosting. His fluency in both Afrikaans and English, even when faced with the occasional spelling mishap, ensured that communication flowed smoothly, allowing the event to run seamlessly.
Four years ago, our current chairman, Mr. Adriaan Laubscher, recognized Garneth’s invaluable experience and wisdom and welcomed him as an associate member of the Griqualand West Primary Schools Rugby Association. Garneth’s contributions as an administrator were unmatched, and last year, he was elected as interim Secretary of the Association. He held this position with pride, dedicating countless hours to the administration of the game he loved, until his untimely passing.
As we remember Garneth, we remember a man who was much more than just a rugby coach or administrator. He was a mentor, a leader, and a friend. He gave his all to the sport and to the boys who had the privilege of training under him. His legacy is not only in the victories of the teams he coached but in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the unwavering passion he instilled in everyone around him.
Garneth’s impact on Griqualand West Rugby will live on in every player, coach, and administrator who had the honor of working alongside him. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate his life and the lasting imprint he has left on our community.
Rest in peace, Garneth. Your legacy will forever be a part of Griqualand West Rugby
