Cape Town – Springbok loose forward Marco van Staden has paid tribute to former Bulls and Tuks teammate Dewald Naude following his death at the age of 31.
Naude died on Saturday, 3 October, after battling brain cancer. He had been diagnosed with a brain tumour earlier this year while playing club rugby in Hong Kong.
The former outside back played alongside Van Staden for the Bulls U21 side before the pair reunited at the University of Pretoria, where they represented Tuks in the Varsity Cup.
Van Staden shared an emotional tribute on social media, remembering Naude as someone who could lift the spirits of those around him.
“Rest in peace my brother. The Lord is holding you now and He has taken all your hurt away.”
Van Staden said Naude had brought joy to his life and helped him forget his problems.
“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.”
He also praised Naude for his courage during the final period of his life.
“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!”
Naude’s death was also confirmed by his Hong Kong club, HBU Sandy Bay, which described him as someone who continued putting others first despite his illness.
His wife, Annabel, also paid tribute to him, describing him as her husband and soulmate.
“What a privilege and honour it has been to be your wife and soulmate. I have been blessed with the best husband.”
She said Naude had taught her about courage, determination and perseverance.
“I am so proud of your bravery and strength.”
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Naude matriculated from Paarl Boys’ High in 2013. The school’s Old Boys association expressed its condolences to his family and the class of 2013.
“We share the grief of the class of 2013 over the passing of Dewald Naudé.”
Naude later played for Tuks and the Bulls U21 side before continuing his rugby career overseas. He had been based in Hong Kong when he was diagnosed with the brain tumour.
His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from former teammates, friends and members of the rugby community.
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Picture: Instagram/ Marco van Staden
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
