Sentraal rugby legend Johann takes a bow…

Johann Coetzee, who for over three decades served Sentraal Rugby Club as both player and chairman, was given a fitting send off at the club’s prize giving on Saturday.
After first running on to the field in Sentraal colours in 1983 and serving as club chairman from 2006, Johann has decided to step down – but that does not mean he will no longer be a supporter!
“I will be definitely cheering on the boys from side lines on Saturday afternoons – maybe it won’t be as stressful,” Johann quipped after he and his supportive wife, Mariet, received a certificate of appreciation from the club.
Hailing from Griqualand in the Northern Cape, Johann took up the position as flank when he played for Sentraal and recalls many anecdotes (most hilarious) of he and the teams exploits around Northern KZN and beyond.
Sentraal previously played in Glencoe until the field fell into disuse and now use Dundee High as their home field.
“In those days Newcastle Iscor boasted three or four clubs as did Ladysmith, each fielding three teams. Games against Iscor and Vryheid were always very tough.”
Fellow players from those days, Boy Hesom and Dolf Kruger, who later coached Sentraal while Johann was chairman, described Johann as a ‘fierce competitor on the field’.
“Not only committed but one of the cleverest players I have seen,” Boy recalled. Johann, who also excelled on the cricket field, stopped playing seriously in 1994, aged 38 but had one last outing against Ladysmith’s second team at the sprightly age of 58!
“I just love the camaraderie among all rugby players. The people you meet, the friends you make – you cannot replace those things.” Sentraal was also one of the first teams in the Northern KZN league to encourage transformation with many players from disadvantaged areas coming to play and excel.
“To see these kids blossom on the field is very satisfying. Some never had a chance as many are from rural areas – but we have shown that rugby is for everyone.”
Johann served as chairman from 2006 to this year’s annual general meeting and said he was very grateful to all the sponsors who have supported Sentraal over the years. “Without all the support (we receive to assist with travelling, kit, food) Sentraal cannot survive.
I hope the sponsors continue to assist,” said the still-passionate Johann. He also paid tribute to Dundee High, the players and his family for their unwavering support.
Derick Basson, the new Club chairman, said Sentraal would be ‘ever thankful to the massive contribution made by Johann’. “It will be good to see Johann and Mariet supporting from the grand stand on a Saturday afternoon,” Derick said at the prize giving.