One of South Africa’s rugby legends, Dougie Heymans, has died.
The former Free State pop died on Monday after he lost his battle with Covid-19.
He was 58.
“It is with extreme sadness that we note another former Cheetah has succumbed to Covid-19.
“Dougie was an excellent player in a particularly difficult position to play in, tighthead. He gave numerous opponents on-field problems. He was unlucky never to have played for the Springboks, The Cheetahs said in a statement, as the union confirmed his death.
“He was the anchor for the Free State is so many matches. Our thoughts and sympathy go out to his family, friends and former team-mates,” the Union said.
According to Sport24, Heymans had been in ICU for some time after contracting the virus.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued on social media following his death.
Our deepest condolences to @UFS_Kovsies Sport & Rugby on the passing of Dougie from all @TuksSport
Wishing his family, friends, colleagues & greater rugby community where he had impact, much strength during this time. @varsitycup @UFSweb https://t.co/fGC21bgdqK— Steven Ball (@CoachStevieB) June 15, 2021
One of @WorldRugby finest gentlemen, was truly one of the good guys #RIP ? https://t.co/Qxr7NrWqm3
— T -Time (@kennedyTsimba) June 15, 2021
Really sad news. Former Free State prop Dougie Heymans passed away after losing his fight against COVID today. Deepest condolences to his family. RiP. A good man gone too soon. #RIPDougieHeymans
— Brenden Nel (@BrendenNel) June 14, 2021
Saddened by the passing of @CheetahsRugby Scrum Legend, Dougie Heymans. I looked up to him as a youngster and appreciated the time he took with me, coming through the ranks.
Remember scrumming against him in training. It felt like I hit a brick wall
R.I.P ?? Legend pic.twitter.com/oCylueE9wE
— Gurthro Steenkamp (@gurthro) June 14, 2021
