Rugby legend Johan Claassen dies
Professor Johan Claassen, a man who made his mark in South African rugby as a player, coach and administrator, has passed away.
One of Springbok rugby’s greatest legends, professor Johan Claassen, died in Pretoria on Sunday at the age of 89.
Johannes Theodorus Claassen was arguably the leading lineout forward in the world in the second half of the 1950s and early 1960s, forming a formidable locking combination with Salty du Rand.
He played 28 Tests for the Springboks between 1955 and 1962, and also captained South Africa nine times. He played a total of 56 matches in green and gold.
Later in his career, he was a Springbok coach in 21 Tests from 1968 to 1971, a Bok selector and he also chaired the selection committee.
Prof Claassen was born in the region of Prince Albert in the Karoo but after a collapse in the ostrich farming market his family moved to Potchefstroom where he was educated and played his rugby for Western Transvaal (now the Leopards).
He studied at Potchefstroom University at the start of a lifelong association with the institution first as a student and lecturer in teacher training and then as a professor of biblical studies.
“Prof Claassen left an indelible mark on the South African rugby landscape, as a player, coach and administrator. Prof Claassen had a strong character and was a trustworthy man – which is why he was revered until the day he passed away,” said Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
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