Former Springbok Gawie Visagie dies
Gawie was a stalwart of the Natal side of the 80's.
THE South African Rugby Legends Association (SARLA) added its voice to the thousands of rugby fans who mourned the passing of former Springbok and Natal (Sharks) scrum-half Gawie Visagie, who succumbed to his battle with cancer last week.
Visagie, a former Sunningdale resident, played for Durban Collegians, Natal and the Springboks.
In 1981 he was part of the Springbok squad that toured to New Zealand. He played in two games on this tour and had his final outing in the green and gold against the USA that same year.
Gawie was a stalwart of the Natal side of the 80’s alongside the likes of, Andre Botha, Rob Hankinson and Craig Jamieson under the captaincy of Wynand Claasen.
In 1984 he was part of the Natal team that, despite being in the B section of the Currie Cup tournament, made their way to a final against WP.
He slotted a drop goal in the first 10 minutes of the game which gave the Banana Boys an early lead but WP eventually won 19-9, with Visagie scoring all 9 points for Natal.
In August this year, the team of 1984 which Gawie was a proud member of, celebrated their 30 year reunion with a dinner that was held in Mt Edgecombe. The 59-year-old’s fight against cancer was recognised at this function with many of the stalwarts from the team present to wish him well.
Pete Smith, current CEO of the KZNRU, said he was fortunate that his rugby playing days overlapped with that of Gawie Visage.
“The passing of Gawie Visagie will be mourned by many. Everyone who knew Gawie will attest to the fact that he was one of the most popular players and personalities ever to have been involved in club, provincial and international rugby.
“We at KZNRU and The Sharks extend our sincere condolences to Gawie’s family and friends at this difficult time,” Smith said.
Visagie is survived by his wife Janet, and their two children.
