Tributes pour in for former Stormers coach

NEWS: The Stormers have paid tribute to former Stormers Head Coach Kobus van der Merwe who sadly passed away at the age of 58.

Van der Merwe represented Western Province in three Currie Cup games between 1989 and 1991 and also represented Border and Griquas in his playing days.

He was appointed as Western Province Head Coach for the Currie Cup in 2005 and went on to be appointed Stormers Head Coach in 2006.

He took over from Gert Smal and coached the Stormers for two seasons before Rassie Erasmus stepped in as Director of Rugby.

“The Stormers’ wider community is deeply saddened by the loss of a true rugby man who made a significant contribution to the game in the Western Cape as a player and coach. The thoughts of everyone connected to the organisation are with his family,” the Stormers wrote on their website.

Griquas also paid tribute to Van der Merwe, stating on their social media: “Kobus, as a player and coach you made a massive contribution to Griquas. With your Griquas passion you also contributed to Border and Western Province. Griquas will always be grateful to you.”