Springbok Marco van Staden has paid tribute to his former Bulls colleague Dewald Naude, whose tragic death has rocked the rugby fraternity.
Naude matriculated from Paarl Boys High in 2013, whose alumni include Boks such as Frans Malherbe, Thomas du Toit, Salmaan Moerat, Evan Roos, and Cameron Hanekom, amongst others.
His cause of deah has not been established.
DEWALD NAUDE’S SHOCK DEATH
In a statement on Facebook, Paarl Boys High Old Boys announced the passing of Dewald Naude.
It shared: “We share the grief of the class of 2013 over the passing of Dewald Naudé. Our hearts go out in love to the Naudé family during this time. May the cherished memories of his life bring comfort and strength.”
Dewald Naude’s wife, Annabel, confirmed that he had passed on Saturday, 3 October.
She shared in an Instagram post: “What a privilege and honour it has been to be your wife and soulmate. I have been blessed with the best husband. You have taught me to always have courage, determination, perseverance, strength, and, most of all, self-belief. Through your bravery, I have learnt to remain positive even through the darkest of times. Thank you for always making me feel loved and for being my calm. I am so proud of your bravery and strength”.
MARCO VAN STADEN PAYS TRIBUTE
On his social media platform, Marco van Staden paid tribute to Dewald Naude, whom he had played alongside in the Bulls U21 side and played for the Tuks rugby team at the University of Pretoria rugby in the Varsity Cup.
Marco shared: “Rest in pea,ce my brother. The Lord is holding you n,ow and He has taken all your hurt away. He loaned you to us for a short while, and you put a smile on my face every day and made me forget about any problem, no matter where you were in the world.
Marco alluded to Dewald having health issues.
He continued: “You put everyone above yourself in the most difficult time of your life…You were brave and fought like only I knew you, always with a smile!”
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A post shared by Marco van Staden (@marco.vanstaden.95)
