Rugby community mourns the death of Pierre Venter

POLOKWANE – The well-known, local rugby legend Pierre Venter (85) will be missed by many in rugby circles in both Polokwane and Mokopane.

Venter passed away unexpectedly on August 3 and will be remembered for his humility and great rugby and general knowledge.

Venter was part of the Pietersburg Rugby Club from 1958 to 1961 before joining the Potgietersrus Rugby Club for a few years and was widely respected for his flyhalf skills.

He was later involved in the Dorp Rugby Club as well as the Blue Bulls Rugby Union and also used his coaching skills at the Noordelikes Rugby Club.

Venter enjoyed a coaching stint with the Pietersburg Rugby Club in 1973 but his involvement in the sport dwindled in the 1980’s due to changes in rugby.

He, however, returned with his knowledge and skills and moved into the role of coach, leaving deep traces in the sport in the city and produced many talented players under his name.

Venter could talk to anyone about anything and was always friendly towards his community and often shared wise counsel with those around him.

Venter leaves behind two daughters, Marinda and Soekie as well as four grandchildren.

“Our father was a loving and caring man who nurtured us as his children and loved his grandchildren even more. The family will remember him as a man who never gave up and did his best to love and support his family.”

Noordelikes board and club member Johan van Ravesteyn told the Polokwane Observer that Venter was a true rugby legend. “Oom Pierre, as the club members and players would refer him as, was a player, leader, coach and mentor for many men and left a deep mark on Northerners. We will always remember him for his knowledge and passion for the game. As the Noordelikes Rugby Club family, we want to express our deepest sympathy to his relatives,” Van Ravesteyn said.

Venter will be laid to rest from the NG Pietersburg Noord Kerk on Friday at 11:00.