Max Baise: South African Rugby Legend Passes Away at 93 in Riversdale
- A South African rugby legend has died at the age of 93 at his home in Riversdale, in the Southern Cape
- The legendary rugby referee would be remembered for his style of officiating and is survived by his son and daughter
- The rugby community took to social media to pay tribute to the legendary referee, while also extending condolences to children and loved ones
The South African community has suffered yet another loss as international rugby referee Max Baise has passed away at the age of 93.
Source: Facebook
The former South African rugby referee is being warmly remembered for his lasting impact on the sport, celebrated for officiating some of the country’s most iconic matches in the 1960s and 1970s, and particularly for his contribution to South African rugby during that era.
The Mzansi ref took charge of seven Test matches, notably the memorable 1974 encounter between the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions at Ellis Park, a thrilling 13-13 draw that prevented the Lions from completing a 4-0 series whitewash.
Baise's death came days after the death of former Comrades Marathon winner Cheryl Winn and the loss of legendary cricket umpire Harold “Dickie” Bird, who died at the age of 92.
Baise passed away at age 93
Outside rugby and officiating games, Baise was a well-known and much-loved figure in Riversdale, Southern Cape, where he bought the Royal Hotel and a liquor store in 1980.
According to reports, the retired SA rugby ref died in Riversdale and will be mostly remembered for his firm officiating style and the significant influence he had during a golden era of the game.
Baise will remain a highly respected name in South African rugby history, and he is survived by his son and daughter.
Source: Facebook
Tributes and condolences poured in from fans on social media, with some extending their prayers to his children.
Keith Kleinveldt said:
"Will forever remember him for disallowing a genuine try scored by Fergus Slattery in the final minute of that test which would have given the Lions a clean sweep of 4 test victories and not a draw in that final match."
Chris van der Spuy wrote:
"I watched him ref the Boks vs France at Newlands when I was 12 years old. I'm now 71 and thrilled he had such a long life."
George Kidd shared:
"Well done Max, mistakes get made all the time and in those days, not easy to make the call. SA got such a whipping back then that we didn't see them for another 20 years.... Think carefully before you answer. Anyway respect to a proper sportsman/official 🍀."
Zaiv Geffen commented:
"Sad to hear. Watching him ref was almost as much fun as the game itself. Animated is the word that comes to mind. Wishing his family and friends a long life..."
Paul Kotze reacted:
"RIP Max. You made Bergvliet proud. Condolences to your children, Ronald and Berenice."
Sylvia Kruger added:
"Condolences to family and friends. You are in my prayers. Legend of a referee. RIP Max Baise."
SA rugby coach passed away
Briefly News also reported that a South African rugby coach passed on while working in Nairobi, Kenya.
The rugby tactician reportedly collapsed during a tournament in East Africa and was pronounced dead after.
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Proofreading by Roxanne Dos Ramos, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
