Boland Rugby mourns the passing of John Minnaar

Boland Rugby (Pty) Ltd and the Boland Rugby Union extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of John Minnaar, who sadly passed away in hospital on Sunday, 2 August, following a cardiac event at the Boland Rugby Stadium.

Mr Minnaar, 72, was attending the Carling Currie Cup Round Three fixture between the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers and the Airlink Pumas when he suffered the medical emergency. He was the father of Monique Bock and father-in-law of former Sanlam Boland Kavaliers player and current attacking coach, Alshaun Bock. Monique was also present at the match when her father collapsed.

Mr Minnaar’s passing deeply saddens the Boland Rugby family and stands alongside the Bock and Minnaar families during this exceptionally difficult time.

“It struck me deeply when we heard the tragic news of the passing of Mr Minnaar,” says Quintin van Rooyen, CEO, Boland Rugby (Pty) Ltd. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family, particularly Monique, Alshaun, and their loved ones, as they come to terms with this devastating loss. We extend our sincere condolences to them and to everyone who knew and loved Mr Minnaar.”

Boland Rugby also acknowledges the immediate response of the medical personnel who attended to Mr Minnaar. Dr Arthur Williams, the attending doctor at the match, was the first doctor to respond when Mr Minnaar collapsed in the stands and immediately began providing medical assistance. Paramedics and other medical support personnel subsequently assisted in the emergency response.

“Rugby is ultimately about people and community, and moments such as these remind us of the bonds that exist far beyond what happens on the field,” said Bennie van Rooi, President, Boland Rugby Union. “We mourn with the Minnaar and Bock families and pray that they will find strength and comfort in one another and in the memories they shared with John.”

Dr Arthur Williams, match day doctor, said: “An incident like this is a reminder of the importance of having trained medical personnel available at sporting events. I am grateful that we were able to respond immediately and that the paramedics and other medical personnel were able to assist. Our thoughts are with John’s family at this incredibly difficult time.”

Alshaun expressed his appreciation for the support shown to their family by the wider Boland Rugby community.

“On behalf of our family, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported us following the passing of my father-in-law, John Minnaar, during Sunday’s Carling Currie Cup Round Three match between the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers and the Airlink Pumas. A special thank you to the Kavaliers coaching, management and playing staff for your immediate support, compassion, and care during an incredibly difficult moment.

“We are also deeply grateful to the medical and emergency personnel who responded so quickly, as well as everyone who assisted us at the stadium.

“To the wider Boland Rugby family, supporters, friends, colleagues, and everyone who has reached out with messages, calls, prayers and condolences, thank you. Your kindness and support have meant more to our family than words can express. From Monique, me, and our entire family, we are truly grateful for the way you stood with us during this difficult time.”