Rugby administrator Monde Tabata dies

The news of the death of the rugby administrator, Monde Tabata, has been received with shock and sadness in the circles of Eastern Province rugby.

The Eastern Cape-born Tabata (60) made his mark in rugby in the province from student days and served as an administrator in the union for a period of time.

? SA Rugby Exco member, Mr Monde Tabata, has sadly passed away earlier today
?️ “He held strong views and was not afraid to share them but it was never personal”
? More here: https://t.co/CHkHV9Ov6S pic.twitter.com/MKNvjh8Yyz

— Springboks (@Springboks) September 17, 2020

EP Rugby Union president, Andre Rademan, says his dedication to the sport was unmatched.

“We called him Mr Fixit, he was so dedicated to rugby. I am devastated, I am shocked I am sad. Monde Tabata was a big man in rugby. To his family and loved ones, you can be proud of him, he was a great man, we’re going to miss him, rugby is going to miss him, South African rugby is going to miss him.”

Prayers and condolences go out to Monde Tabata’s family. He was such a great person who could put a smile on anyone’s face but also give you proper advice, he was my confidant. A true rugby man and great asset to E. Cape & SA rugby. Yoh we are losing our legends. RIP Mawawa ???? pic.twitter.com/pzQ58GPEPX

— ThandoManana (@TandoManana) September 17, 2020

Well known rugby executive, Monde Tabata, has died. The South African rugby union says in a statement that he passed after fighting the effects of the coronavirus for several months. #sabcnews

— Radio 2000 (@Radio2000ZA) September 17, 2020