Tributes pour in for ‘true leader’ Bomza
TRIBUTES have poured in for former Springbok and legend Welile “Bomza” Nkhola who passed away at age 71 on Sunday at the Livingstone Hospital, in Port Elizabeth after a long battle with cancer.
Nkhola who was born on February 22 1946, made his provincial and national debut at age 21 and went on to captain the SA Coloured Rugby Football Board National XV in May 1968.
After the South African rugby unions had been unified in 1992, Nkhola, together with senior EP Rugby Union official Freddie Makoki, started the Peter Mkhata team which helped develop young black players in the Eastern Cape.
“Bomza was a true leader passionate about development. He was always hands-on with the boys we worked with and showed an interest in improving their lives beyond the rugby field,” recalled Makoki.
Former Springbok lock forward and close friend Themba Ledwaba said: “Playing side by side with Bomza was an absolute honour. He was an excellent kicker and always used his leadership skills to unite the team.”
Nkhola also played eighth man for the Oriental Rugby Club and was a veteran of the Patrons and Zonke Cup competitions of the SA African Rugby Football Board.
He contributed a try to the African Springboks’ 22-9 victory over the Coloured Springboks in the August Test of 1968.
Saru president Mark Alexander Nkhola yesterday.
“Bomza was not only a legend in Eastern Cape rugby communities, but a legend of black rugby prior to the days of unity in our game, and until his passing this weekend,” said Alexander.
“Unfortunately he did not have the opportunity to display his vast talent on the international stage, because of the political situation in our country.
“He will be remembered as an uncompromising loose-forward with a huge love for SA rugby.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time of grief.” paid tribute to
Nkhola was known as an impressive kicker who contributed to Phildon Kona’s try during the May 1969 Test.
The smooth and crafty Nkhola, who supported nonracial rugby in the KwaZakhle Rugby Union, concluded his playing career with South African Cup players Salie Fredericks and Winston Petersen and regarded them as some of the best players he had come across.
In 2004, Nkhola, together with fellow stalwarts Salie Fredericks, Cassiem Jabaar, Fagmie Solomons, received the Saru President’s Award for their contribution to rugby.
In further recognition of his talent in 2014, Nkhola’s handprints were cast in bronze and installed at the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum at the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town.
Nkhola leaves behind his wife, six children, a twin sister, Welekazi, and a brother, Mzimkhulu. —