WP launches Franschhoek Rugby Disaster Relief Fund
Three people – one senior player, one Under-21 player and a spectator – were killed in the tragic bus accident on Saturday morning, with the Franschhoek team on their way to play in a friendly against Grabouw.
The DHL Stormers and the Sharks held a moment’s silence before kick-off in their Super Rugby clash at DHL Newlands on Saturday and, now, the WPRFU has stepped up to establish this much-needed Relief Fund to assist those club members who cannot afford the medical costs.
The WPRFU opened the fund with a sizeable contribution on Monday morning, an amount that was all but matched by WP Rugby’s commercial agents, the Treble Group, whilst a bucket collection will also be held when the DHL Stormers host the Chiefs at DHL Newlands this Saturday.
Mr Wakefield said: “It was with great sadness that we learnt about the tragic bus accident involving Franschhoek Rugby Football Club in the Franschhoek Pass on Saturday morning. In all, 26 people were injured and three people – two rugby players and a spectator – sadly lost their lives in the accident.
“I went to visit the club and the community of Franschhoek on Sunday, along with fellow members of the WPRFU Executive, and it was very sad to see what an effect, both physically and mentally, the bus accident has had on the club members and the community of Franschhoek.
“We, as the Western Province Rugby Football Union, have committed ourselves to provide the utmost level of support to the club, families of the deceased and injured – many of whom do not have the funds to pay their medical bills – as well as the community of Franschhoek at large and to help keep this proud and enthusiastic club running.
“We would also like to once again extend our heartfelt condolences to the families that suffered losses and assure them of our continued support during these sad times.”
If you would like to make a donation towards the Franschhoek Rugby Disaster Relief Fund, the fund’s bank account details are as follows:
Name: Franschhoek Rugby Disaster Relief Fund
Bank: Standard Bank
Account number: 071411097
Branch code: 025009
* A memorial service will be held in the Franschhoek Community Sports Centre on Tuesday, March 10 (starting at 19h00).
