Jan Boland: South Africa Rugby Community Mourns As Springboks Legend Passes Away at 80
- The Springboks have lost another legend, a few hours after the passing of the former South African rugby star and coach Bevin Fortuin
- The statement released by the deceased's family confirmed that the Boks legend passed on at the age of 80 at his residence on Friday
- South African rugby lovers and others paid tribute to him and sent their condolences to his family on social media
The South African rugby community has lost yet another legend, with the organisation still mourning the death of Bevin Fortuin, who died of a sudden heart attack, as Springbok legend Johannes Hermanus Hugo Coetzee, better known as "Jan Boland," passed on.
The former Boks flanker is said to have passed on at the age of 80 in his home in Stellenbosch following an illness on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Born on January 20, 1945, Coetzee earned his Springbok debut in 1974 at the age of 29, featuring against the British & Irish Lions in Cape Town. He went on to represent South Africa in six Test matches, including all four clashes against the touring All Blacks in 1976.
The veteran took a new career path after retiring from rugby, becoming a rich and successful winemaker, leaving behind a legacy in the industry.
Springboks legend Coetzee dies at 80
The Coetzee family released a statement confirming the passing of the Springboks legend on Friday morning after a brief illness.
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"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jan Boland Coetzee (aged 80). He passed away early this morning at his home in Stellenbosch, after a short illness. Though his health had been challenged in recent years, Jan showed his trademark resilience and strength right up until the end," the family statement said.
The family went on to appreciate the love and care Jan received while he was alive, especially in his final days. They also confirmed that the details will soon be made available to the public.
"We are truly thankful to all who cared for him, especially during his final weeks. His wide network of lifelong friends was like an extended family, and we are deeply grateful to the dedicated doctors and caregivers who ensured his comfort day and night. Details of the memorial service will be shared soon."
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander said the rugby community was deeply saddened by the death of Jan Boland Coetzee, describing the loss as a painful moment for the entire South African rugby family.'
He noted that Coetzee was far more than just a tireless flanker and a Western Province icon; he was a true gentleman whose humility, dignity, and quiet determination left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Beyond the field, Alexander highlighted Coetzee’s remarkable second career as a winemaker, where he built a reputation for excellence and innovation.
He praised Jan not only for his achievements in the wine industry but also for his generosity in sharing his expertise and his commitment to uplifting farmworkers and improving conditions in agriculture.
Netizens pay tribute to late Coetzee
Johann Bence said:
"Rest in peace Jan Boland ! You were a legend ! Tough as you could get!"
StellWineRoute wrote:
"RIP Jan Boland Coetzee, legend of South African Wine and all-round brilliant human being."
Kobus Wiese shared:
"Very sad day with the passing of a true legend on and off the field, Jan Boland Coetzee🙏🙏🙏."
LaBoucher added:
"Words cannot express how saddened we are to learn of the Coetzee family's loss. Oom Jan was a inspiration and legend, not just here in the winelands but all over the wine and rugby world. Rest in peace Oom Jan. 🙏🍇🏉"
SA surfer dies in Cape Town
Briefly News also reported that a SA kite-surfer has passed on after going missing. He was last spotted on the water off Eden on the Bay in Bloubergstrand, Cape Town, on Sunday.
The 38-year-old was later found when a motor yacht crew discovered his body at sea.
Source: Briefly News
