Salute to a local legend

It is the hallmark of those whose lives have contributed to the welfare of others, that their names will live on far past the ‘expiry date’ of their human bodies.

Local rugby legend Chris Edwards is one of those.

He passed away on Sunday, but the impression he made on the local and provincial rugby sphere will be remembered well into the distant future.

His name is literally emblazoned on the pavilion at Mick Kelly Park, the home of the Empangeni and Rhinos rugby clubs, this honour having been bestowed in 2015 for his contribution to the game both as a player and as an administrator. Chris Edwards lived for rugby. A dreamer in terms of what could be done in this (at that time) rugby-starved neck of the woods, having arrived in the town in 1967, he and his compatriots not only constructed the tremendous facilities at Mick Kelly Park, but he also grew a club that soon became a powerful force in the provincial game.

Moreover, he instilled a love for the sport in the hearts of many a young person, and ensured the club had a sound ethical and reputable status, as well as being a feared opponent for those teams that travelled north expecting nothing less than a tough, hard-fought match played in the true spirit of the game.

A talented player in his own right, it was as an administrator that Chris Edwards made his greatest impact, giving back without limit of his own time and money.

Not only did he serve as Empangeni Rugby Club President from 1981 to 1992, he was also a Life Member and former President of the KZN Rugby Union, as well as being a mentor to many fledgling local committee administrators.

As he was in his commitment to rugby, so too he was dedicated in his profession as a pharmacist, his businesses in Empangeni and eShowe contributing greatly to the health and well-being of many in the community.

We salute with deep appreciation a fine gentleman who now rests from his many labours of love.