McIntosh wins prestigious IRB award

FORMER Sharks and Springbok coach, Ian McIntosh became the first South African and indeed the first Durban North resident to win the IRB’s Vernon Pugh Award for Distinguished Service, recognising his achievement in changing the face of rugby in South Africa.

The Vernon Pugh award recognises any individual, union or group, who has given outstanding service to their country and contributed to the international game. McIntosh said he was thrilled and very humbled by the award.

“First and foremost I’m grateful to our Lord for enabling me to achieve the longevity I have had. I’m mindful of the fact that I received this award on behalf of the many people who have allowed me the privilege to serve this wonderful game of rugby, namely my wife of 50 years, Rona, my family, the local clubs, the union, the IRB, SA Rugby and SA Rugby Legends who have given me a second life in rugby,” he said.

McIntosh’s career has stretched more than 50 years which started in his native Zimbabwe. He coached The Sharks to their first Currie Cup title in 1990 and lost just one of five Currie Cup finals the Men in Black reached in eight years.

John Smit, Sharks CEO and a former player who was coached by McIntosh himself, paid tribute to a man whose contribution to the game has been immense.

“Our hearty congratulations go out to Ian Mac on his wonderful achievement,” said Smit.

“He is a legend of the game and I was grateful to have had the chance to be coached by him, even if it was for just a short period of time in my early career. The game of rugby is richer for having him play such a strong and important role over the years,” he said.