The Western Cape rugby community is in mourning following the death of Dawie Snyman, one of Western Province’s most iconic rugby figures.
A former Springbok utility back and highly decorated coach, Snyman passed away at the age of 76 after a short battle with leukemia.
Snyman’s legacy in South African rugby is deeply woven into the fabric of Western Province’s golden era.
As head coach, he steered the team to a record five consecutive Currie Cup titles from 1982 to 1986 – a feat that remains unmatched in WP history.
A Player and Coach Who Defined an Era
Before donning the famous blue and white hoops, Snyman made his Springbok debut in 1972.
Equally adept at flyhalf and fullback, his tactical nous and leadership laid the foundation for his later success on the sidelines.
Snyman’s influence extended beyond the pitch.
He mentored generations of rugby talent and played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of Western Province Rugby during a transformative era for the sport in South Africa.
“He will go down as one of the true legends of Western Province,” a statement from the union said.
A Tribute on the Field
In honour of Snyman’s legacy, the Western Province team will wear black armbands during their Currie Cup clash against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday, 16 August.
Snyman’s rugby pedigree runs deep.
His brother, Jackie Snyman, also represented the Springboks during the 1970s.
Jackie’s son, Dawie Snyman jnr, currently serves as an assistant coach for the Stormers, continuing the family’s contribution to South African rugby.
As tributes continue to pour in, Snyman is remembered not only for his accomplishments but for his humility, sharp rugby mind, and enduring influence on South African rugby.
FACTFILE: DAWIE SNYMAN
| Full names: Dawid Stefanus Lubbe |
| Date of birth: 5 July 1949 |
| Place of birth: Johannesburg |
| School: Grey College |
| Springbok #453 |
| Physical: 1.73m, 77kg |
| Test summary: Tests: 10 Tries: 1 |
| First Test: 3 Jun 1972 – Flyhalf against England at Ellis Park, Johannesburg |
| Last Test: 27 Aug 1977 – Fullback against World Invitation at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria |
Test history
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Result |
| 3 Jun 1972 | England | Ellis Park, Johannesburg | Lost 18-9 |
| 8 Jun 1974 | Britain | Newlands, Cape Town | Lost 12-3 |
| 22 Jun 1974 | Britain | Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria | Lost 28-9 |
| 23 Nov 1974 | France | Stade Municipal, Toulouse | Won 13-4 |
| 30 Nov 1974 | France | Parc des Princes, Paris | Won 10-8 |
| 21 Jun 1975 | France | Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein | Won 38-25 |
| 28 Jun 1975 | France | Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria | Won 33-18 |
| 14 Aug 1976 | New Zealand | Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein | Lost 15-9 |
| 4 Sep 1976 | New Zealand | Newlands, Cape Town | Won 15-10 |
| 27 Aug 1977 | World Invitation | Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria | Won 45-24 |
Do you have any memories of Dawie Snyman during his playing days?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
