May 03

Former rugby star turns 100

Tienie Matthyser, a former Transvaal rugby player celebrates his 100th birthday with many former rugby stars.

14 September 2012 | Chemélle Barnard

    

Former Transvaal Rugby player, Tienie Matthyser turned 100 years old on 13 September and celebrated it with all who knows him.

Resident at La Reynette Centre in Krugersdorp, Tienie Matthyser is a big man with a deep voice.

The friendly and spontaneous  “oupa Tienie” touches the lives of all who knows him.

He often entertains with stories of his life as a diamond grinding, a flower farmer and former rugby player.

Tienie did not only play provincial rugby, but also coached it.

According to Toy Dannhauser, Tienie holds the title as the oldest living Transvaal rugby player.

Oupa Tienie’s care at La Reynette Centre is a highlight and honour to them.

“We are so glad Tienie is a part of our family here,” says Reynette Ridley of the Centre.

Tienie’s birthday celebration were left in the hands of  Hennie Fensham and Toy Dannhauser, who is a former Transvaal rugby captain.

These two men got into contact with many former rugby players from far and wide to come and celebrate with Tienie on the day.

Among them were  Piet Malan, Piet Botha, Martin Pelser, Fanie Kuhn, Wynand Claasen, Klippies Kritzener, Richard Prentice, Gerrie Germishuys, Swys Joubert, Tobias du Toit, Wim Hollander en Tommy du Plessis.

Tienie is also a family man, and was strict but always fair to his two daughters, Mien and Mariaan.

“It is a huge honour  to haveTienie  with us to celebrate his 100th birthday. Thank you for your warm and loving character,” ends Toy.

The La Reynette Centre also thanks their sponsors singer Lelane Lourens, guest of honour Kevin de Klerk and  the Golden Lions Rugby Union and all the local businesses who contributed to the day.

 

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