A beloved young cricket coach, Berend Alkema, from Laerskool Hennopspark, was shot and killed during a home attack in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The school’s principal, Jannie Raath, issued a statement on Wednesday.

“Armed robbers attacked our operations head, Ann Alkema, and her family in their home while they were asleep.

“Their son, Berend, who worked at our school’s cricket academy, was fatally wounded and succumbed to his injuries. Berend coached many boys at our school through the cricket academy, and they were very fond of him.”

Raath added that they cannot upset the children at school on Wednesday with the news.

“We cannot upset our children here and now with this tragic news – we felt it best to inform you so that you can guide your own child in sharing this sad news – you will know best how to

comfort your child. It is always better when Mom or Dad is with them when such news is shared.”

He said counsellors will be available at the school tomorrow to support the children and staff.

“Berend (Sr), Ann and Yteke are in our prayers. Yteke is a Grade R teacher at our school.”

Tributes and messages of condolence streamed in on social media on Wednesday.

The Excellentiam Cricket Academy in Centurion posted the following on their Facebook Page:

“Today was one of the worst days not only in the cricket community of South Africa but also to me as a friend, and to many kids as a proud role model to all he was involved with in his character and as a coach to many.

“He was a friend, player, and coach in my academy. I have no other words than to say, Berend Alkema, you will be missed by all, and you have surely touched many, many lives, and at the end, that is what we are all here to do. Leave a legacy and mark for all to see!

“I won’t let you fade, Berend Alkema.”

Also read: Robber shot and killed, three others injured in Centurion shootout