WELL-KNOWN Eastern Cape sports personality, Mike Stallenberg, who fulfilled a prominent role particularly within the rugby and cricket circles, has passed away.
“It is with deep regret and shock that the Eastern Cape cricket community learnt of the passing of Mike,” said retired Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Judge Ronnie Pillay, who is the current Chairman of the Eastern Cape’s Warriors cricket franchise.
Stallenberg played rugby as well as cricket and later managed with aplomb the provincial teams of the two codes at various times. One of the many highlights of his career was the 1987/88 season when Eastern Province Cricket won the national trophy. He also coached the Eastern Province rugby squad and similarly took it to winning its respective national trophy.
“Mike was mindful of the needs of non- racial sport. He contributed towards the establishment of a non-racial society in several ways and was humble enough to do so without complaint or seeking any reward or blowing any trumpet. His contribution is often forgotten, but the relationship one was able to establish with him went far beyond sport, and I will remember him for his contributions to sport and our friendship,” said Judge Pillay.
Dr Mark Williams, Chief Executive of EP Cricket and Warriors said, “Our condolences go to his family and the sports fraternity in the Eastern Cape and we wish them strength in this time of sadness.”
