SA Rugby president, Mark Alexander, has issued a heartfelt tribute to late Bok great Chester Williams, who passed away suddenly on Friday.
Video tribute: The legend of Chester
Alexander reacted with shock and disbelief when the news of the death of the former Bok wing surfaced on Friday afternoon. He passed away from a heart attack in Cape Town on Friday afternoon, aged 49.
Williams was a star of the Springboks’ Rugby World Cup-winning squad in 1995 and one of the best wings in South African rugby history.
‘The news of Chester’s passing is devastating and hard to believe, as he was still young and seemingly in good health,’ said Alexander.
‘Chester was a true pioneer in South African rugby and his performances at the World Cup in 1995, as a snapshot of his Springbok career, will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of our rugby public.
‘As a member of the Springbok class of 1995, Chester was not only well-known in the rugby fraternity, but he was a much-loved South African whose influence stretched wider than just the rugby world.
‘He was passionate about rugby and South Africa and as coach, at various levels, selflessly gave back to the game after he hung up his boots. He played with courage and was a beacon of light in his community and in the broader South African context.
‘Chester Williams had so much more to give. Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife, Maria, his children, family and friends during this very sad time.’
