SA Rugby, Sharks pay respects to McIntosh: ‘Revolutionary, icon, legend’

Players, administrators and fans paid tribute to former Springbok coach and Sharks rugby legend Ian McIntosh on Wednesday following the news of his death, due to cancer, at the age of 84.

McIntosh was fondly remembered, with the likes of 2007 World Cup winner Bryan Habana calling him “a remarkable man” while 1995 World Cup hero Kobus Wiese said: “Few men have left such an impact through the great game of rugby on so many lives. His passion and commitment were legendary.”

Boks and Sharks

McIntosh coached the Springboks in 12 Tests, while he guided the Sharks into premier division rugby in South Africa when the 1990 team shocked the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld to win their first Currie Cup title.

McIntosh’s Sharks teams would win three more titles in 1992, 1995 and 1996. He also took the Sharks to the Super Rugby final in 1996.

McIntosh would later become a Bok selector, while he remained involved in rugby at community and legends level.

Born in Zimbabwe on 24 September 1938, McIntosh also coached the SA Sevens team in 2003 – the only man who was head coach of both of South Africa’s senior national men’s rugby teams.

‘Passionate rugby man’

“‘Mac’ left an indelible mark on the global rugby landscape, but even more so in South Africa and with his beloved Sharks,” said Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby.

“He was an intensely passionate rugby man through and through, someone who never stopped learning, coaching, educating and giving back. Rest in peace, Master.”

The Sharks said in a statement: “’Mr Mac’ as he was fondly known, was a revolutionary in rugby, a trailblazer, an innovator, and an icon who helped turn the B league Banana Boys into The Sharks, who became a South African rugby force during his time as coach.”

Legend

Sharks CEO Eduard Coetzee said: When you speak of legends of Sharks rugby, the first name that springs to mind is Mr Mac. He embodied the veery essence of Sharks rugby and was a passionate and loyal supporter until the very end.”

Former Sharks CEO Brian van Zyl worked alongside McIntosh for many years. He said: “He was not only innovative, but also practical. He did not want robots for players, but intelligent men who could think on their feet.

“He personified what it meant to wear the jersey with pride and was a true rugby man.”

Van Zyl added: “His piercing stare and intense personality underlined his determination to succeed, but a glint in his eye marked him as a man of the people. His players respected him, but they also loved him and would do anything for him. His proud and celebrated legacy will continue for years to come.”

In 2021, McIntosh was honoured when the main entrance to Kings Park in Durban was renamed the Ian McIntosh Gate.

He is survived by his wife Rhona and sons Ross, Craig and Evan.