RIP John September (1939-2020)

SA Rugby mourns the passing of former player, coach and administrator, John (Biza) September, who passed away on 1 May at his home in Zwletemba, Worcester, at the age of 81.

SA Rugby president, Mr Mark Alexander, extended his condolences to the family of Mr September and said that the wider rugby fraternity lost one of their stalwarts.

“Few people lived and breathed rugby the way ‘Biza’ did and he was one of the greats, not only as a player, but also as coach and administrator after he retired,” said Mr Alexander.

“His continued involvement in the game we all hold so dear, enriched and improved the lives of many, many people, not only in his community, but also on national and international level.”

As a player, September represented Boland as a lock in more than 80 matches, and played for the national team of the South African Rugby Association (SARA).

After his playing days he stayed involved with the game as a selector and a coach and was later named as team manager for the SA Barbarian and Pioneer squads that toured Germany and South America respectively.

During all of this, he continued coaching at school level as well. September was also known for his love of the arts and was one of the first radio hosts on Vallei FM, a community radio station.

“We wish his family and friends strength and love in this time of bereavement and want to thank them that we, as his rugby family, could share his wisdom, mentorship and guidance,” Mr Alexander added.