RIP: SA rugby legend passes away

SA Rugby has paid condolences to the family of former South African Rugby Football Federation (SARFF) player, Christie Noble, who has died after a short illness.

Noble’s contribution to South African rugby extended across several provincial unions and generations of players – he enjoyed a distinguished playing career, representing Western Province, WP Liga, Eastern Province and Natal on the wing.

In 1990, Noble was a member of the Natal team that won the Currie Cup for the first time, in the union’s 100th year of existence. Later, he was an assistant coach to the first Springbok Women’s team in 2004.

Tributes pour in for Christie Noble

Noble’s older brother John also played for the Proteas of the SARFF, and one of his nephews is former Springbok wing JP Pietersen, nowadays the head coach of the Sharks.

“The Noble family have left an indelible mark in rugby in South Africa, and Christie’s achievements in our game were particularly significant in an era when opportunities in South African rugby were far from equal,” said Mr Alexander.

“As a member of the Federation, Christie was among those players whose talent, determination and commitment helped sustain and develop the game beyond the traditional structures of rugby in the country.

“His presence in the 1990 Natal team was another important milestone. As the only black player in that side, he demonstrated that ability and excellence could transcend the barriers that divided South African rugby at the time.”

Lasting legacy

Alexander added that Noble leaves behind a massive legacy, not only as a former player, but also for the role he played after he hung up his boots, and in his community.

“Christie Noble was part of a generation of rugby players who helped shape the history of our game under challenging circumstances,” he said in a statement.

“His journey across provincial rugby, and his achievements on the field, as well as later in life when he selflessly gave back to the game and to his community, deserve to be remembered and celebrated.

“Players like Christie helped lay the foundations for the inclusive game we continue to build today. Their contribution went beyond the results on the scoreboard – they helped create opportunities and inspire future generations to believe that they, too, could reach the highest levels of rugby.

“On behalf of SA Rugby, I extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, former teammates and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. We honour his contribution to South African rugby and extend our deepest sympathies to all those mourning his passing.”