The untimely passing of two youngsters, both local rugby club players, in separate incidents over the weekend of 21-22 October has left the community and rugby fraternity shocked and saddened.
Marshall Daars (29), who played for St George’s Rugby Club for some years, lost his life last Saturday morning when he apparently lost control of his vehicle on the N2, near the R300 turn-off. Later, in the early hours of Sunday morning, Strand United’s Thaakir Williams (21) was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident along lower Gordon’s Bay Road in Strand.
Williams was buried in accordance with Muslim rites later that day, while Daars was laid to rest this past weekend.
Daars was on his way home when the fatal accident occurred. Circumstances remain unclear, but it is believed that his was the only vehicle involved.
Daars leaves a pregnant wife and three-year-old behind, the second child reportedly due within a month.
He played rugby at Strand High School and featured in several Western Province teams as he played for the different age groups, and represented St George’s as an u-20 player and eventually a first-team player. His passing came as a shock to the community and St George’s Rugby Club expressed sadness and sympathised with the family. Several attempts to reach the Daars family for comment were unsuccessful.
In the other incident Williams’ father, Muzamiel, said his son was the second-eldest of four and a pleasant, respectful individual who never hurt anyone.
He attended Strand Moslem Primary and matriculated from Madrasatur Rajaa Strand Secondary, and over the past couple of years was “finding his feet” and enrolling in courses to study.
“He wasn’t exactly settled on a career he wished to pursue and was really very passionate about rugby,” his father said. “He used to play for Strand Secondary during his school days and has been with Strand United for a long time.”
On the fateful evening Williams said his son had gone to a fan park with friends to watch the Springboks vs England semi-final rugby game, and was due to return to Strand much later that night.
“We got a text message from him at 02:15 saying he was on his way to the Astron Garage to get food and would come home afterwards. That was the last we heard from him.”
About an hour later the police came knocking on their door.
“It was the most difficult moment of my life to identify my child. He was apparently crossing the road when a car hit him and drove off. According to the paramedics on the scene Thaakir died on impact,” Williams said.
“It is indeed a difficult time for the family, but we draw strength from the character of Thaakir.
“We also accept Allah’s will and that his loss is all part of his plan. If I ever meet the driver of the vehicle I have it in my heart to forgive him.”
Strand United said in a statement they were deeply saddened by the passing of one of their most talented players. “His death came as a huge shock to us as a community and the club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his parents and family.”
Strand United chairperson Oesman Wentzel added: “Thaakir was very near to our hearts. He was that energetic person who brought vibrancy among his fellow teammates. He had the most beautiful smile that brought warmth and he was a wonderful, very compassionate and caring person. May Allah put ease in his family’s hearts.”
According to Strand police a case of culpable homicide is being investigated.
