Former Springbok Bevin Fortuin dies aged 46
Former Springbok Bevin Fortuin, who played for South Western Districts and the Cheetahs before earning two caps for South Africa, has died at 46 while coaching the Northam Rhinos Rugby Club in Limpopo, leaving behind a significant legacy in rugby. Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
Former Springboks player Bevin Fortuin died on Thursday. He was 46 and it’s suspected he suffered a heart attack.
Fortuin was working as coach of the Northam Rhinos Rugby Club, in Setaria, Limpopo.
Born in 1979, Fortuin played his rugby for South Western Districts in the youth ranks from 1998 until he made his senior team debut in 2000.
By 2005, he gained enough recognition to be signed by the Cheetahs before going to play for the Springboks a year later.
Tribute to Bevin Fortuin: Honouring the Legacy of a Rugby Icon
Northam Rhinos Rugby Club shared the news of Fortuin’s death on Facebook on Thursday evening: “With heavy hearts, we share the sad news of the passing of our beloved head coach, Bevin Fortuin. The Northam Rhinos Rugby Club, along with our president Mr. Gonsalves, CEO Mr. Dunne, the executive team, and the entire Zondereinde community, extend our deepest condolences to his wife, young son, and family.
“Bevin’s immense contributions, both on and off the field, leave an immeasurable legacy. Our community feels his loss deeply, but heaven is richer for his presence. We salute you, Bevin Fortuin, Springbok no. 780, for the profound impact you made on the @Northam Rhinos and the Setaria and Zondereinde communities. Rest easy , Champ.”
Though he won just two caps for the Springboks, featuring against Ireland in 2006 and Australia in 2007, he was well known for his talents at fullback and centre.
As his playing career was drawing to an end, he moved into coaching in 2011 while still turning out on the field.
The next year he moved into coaching full-time, before being appointed as head coach of the SWD Eagles for the 2013 Vodacom Cup.
In 2015, Fortuin joined the coaching staff of the Bulls.
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander also paid tribute to Fortuin: “It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that we mourn the passing of Bevin Fortuin, a man whose life embodied integrity, humility and unwavering dedication to the game of rugby and the communities it uplifted.
“Bevin was more than a gifted player and coach; he was a mentor, a leader and a beacon of hope for many young athletes who saw in him the possibility of greatness grounded in grace. His contributions to South African rugby, both on and off the field, were marked by quiet strength and a deep sense of purpose. He carried the jersey with pride and he wore his humanity even prouder.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who were fortunate to walk alongside him, may you find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind: one of service, excellence and compassion. His memory will live on in every try scored, every young player inspired and every community he touched.
“Bevin Fortuin’s name will forever be etched in the story of South African rugby – not only as a player, but as a man who gave his heart to the game and to the people it serves. May he rest in peace and may his spirit continue to guide us.”