In a shock development, long-serving coach Johan “Duppie” du Plessis — the SDC Noordvaal Cup Coach of the Year 2025 — has resigned from his role at Garsfontein. The details remain unclear, but after 16 years of service — including 11 years as 1st XV head coach — the news is set to send ripples through the school’s rugby community.
Under Duppie’s leadership, the young co-ed carved out a national reputation as a rising rugby force, securing five Noordvaal Cups and consistently mixing it with the cream of the crop — the elite rugby schools of South Africa with their vast resources and deeply established rugby cultures and traditions. His influence went well beyond results. His passion for the game helped forge a winning mindset, inspired countless players, and cemented him as one of Garsies’ most loyal Old Boys and supporters.
While his departure signals the end of a remarkable chapter and will be sad news for all who had the pleasure of interacting with him, he leaves behind a legacy and foundation strong enough to propel Garsies rugby confidently into its next era.
Read Koos Venter’s article about Duppie written on 30 September 2025 after The Bere’s Noordvaal Cup three-peat (2023,2024 & 2025).
Garsfontein’s impressive overall national ranking 2019-2025: