News24 | Former Springbok, legendary WP coach Dawie Snyman dies

Former Springbok and renowned rugby coach Dawie Snyman has died at the age of 76.

Former Springbok utility back and Western Province coach Dawie Snyman died at the age of 76 on Thursday.

News24 understands that Snyman was diagnosed with leukemia about a month ago.

Snyman, who could operate at flyhalf and fullback, played 10 Tests for the Springboks between 1972 and 1977.

Snyman was schooled at Grey College in Bloemfontein, but moved down to the Cape after school to study at Stellenbosch University, where he played for Maties.

He had the rare distinction of being called up to the Springboks without playing provincial rugby, touring with the 1971 Boks to Australia. He did not play a Test, though, and made his Western Province debut later in 1971. His Test debut came the following year against England at Ellis Park.

Arguably the highlight of Snyman’s career was featuring in the 1976 home series against the All Blacks which the Boks won 3-1.

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After his playing career ended, Snyman became a renowned coach of Western Province and was at the helm of the team whey they won the Currie Cup a record five times in a row from 1982-1986.

Snyman’s brother, Jackie, was also a Springbok utility back in the 1970s.

Jackie’s son, also Dawie, is currently the Stormers’ assistant coach.

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