The Boland Rugby Union has expressed heartbreak over the passing of James Jonas, a Kleinmond RFC player who died on Saturday, 26 July.
BELOVED CLUB RUGBY DIES
Jonas, 44, collapsed after playing for Kleinmond against his hometown team, Genadendal RFC, in a regional fixture in the Overberg.
The first team match between the two clubs was immediately cancelled out of respect for Jonas and his grieving family.
A beloved figure in Boland club rugby, Jonas was known for his deep connection to both Kleinmond and Genadendal communities.
He attended school in Genadendal before representing Kleinmond with unwavering loyalty throughout his playing career.
Jonas’ – whose wife and two children were present at the ground on Saturday – sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Boland rugby landscape, uniting rival communities in shared grief and remembrance.
BOLAND RUGBY MOURNS JONAS’ PASSING, OFFERS SUPPORT
The Boland Rugby Union extended condolences to Jonas’s family, his teammates, and the communities of Kleinmond and Genadendal.
The union’s president Bennie van Rooi said Jonas left a lasting legacy.
“Our hearts are heavy over the loss of one of our own,” Van Rooi said in a statement released Saturday afternoon.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, family, and all who loved him. May they find comfort in his legacy and the memory of his unwavering spirit.”
Kleinmond RFC chairman Basil Swartz described Jonas as a humble, loyal man who gave everything every time he wore the club’s jersey.
“James was a true rugby player,” said Swartz. “He leaves behind a void that will be difficult for anyone to fill.”
“Our club mourns together with his family and our rugby brothers from Genadendal. We will remember him as a man of integrity, dedication, and true sportsmanship.
Support is being offered to those affected, and a memorial is expected to be planned by the club and local union.
SENDS YOUR MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCES TO THE JONAS FAMILY
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