Tributes are pouring in for Riaan Kotze after the long-serving administrator passed away over the weekend.

He celebrated his 55th birthday on September 14.

“It is with deep sadness that the Mpumalanga Rugby Union mourns the passing of our deputy president Riaan Kotze,” said MRU CEO Marius van Rensburg.

Two decades of service

Kotze dedicated more than 20 years of continuous service to Mpumalanga rugby, serving the game at club, regional and provincial level. He progressed from secretary and chairperson of Ferros/Witbank Rugby Club and the Nkangala Region to serving as a member of the MRU council for 19 years and, since 2022, as deputy president of the organisation.

Pumas championship success

“He was deeply committed to amateur rugby, club development and the growth of rugby throughout the province, while also making a valuable contribution to our high-performance structures,” said Van Rensburg.

“During his years of service, he was part of a period that saw the Pumas achieve significant success, including the 2022 Currie Cup Championship and the 2025/26 SA Cup victory, among other provincial achievements.

“More than his positions and achievements, Riaan will be remembered for his passion for rugby, commitment to the clubs, loyalty to Mpumalanga rugby and his willingness to serve the game he loved.

“His passing is a tremendous loss to the Mpumalanga rugby family. Our sincere condolences go to his family, friends, colleagues and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

“May his contribution to Mpumalanga rugby and his legacy of service never be forgotten.”Rest in peace, Riaan. You served the game with passion and dedication.”

The date and cause of Kotze’s death were unknown at the time of publication.

A memorial service will be held for Kotze at the Mbombela Stadium Auditorium on October 15 at 10:00.