Northern Cape Cricket is honored to pay tribute to the principal of Newton Primary Mr. Boon Boonzaaier who retires from his post today. Mr. Boonzaaier has been a real pillar of strength for cricket in the Northern Cape. He had served cricket with distinction over the years of his involvement in the game. He held positions as Vice-chairperson, Secretary, and Chairperson of Primary Schools’ cricket in the Northern Cape for many years.
Mr. Boonzaaier will also be remembered for his contribution as a coach and a mentor for so many young cricketers who came through the system at the then Griqualand West Cricket Board. His contribution to the game in this part of the world could never be measured in rands and cents, it was immense. The names of the players, if we must mention them all will be endless list, we only think of Boeta Dippenaar, Gerhardus Liebenberg, Rudy Steyn, Donald Donaldson, Gustav Burger, Arno Boonzaaier, Charl & Ruan Pietersen, Jacques Van Heerden and the list goes on and on. His passion and commitment to the game could be seen in the players who crossed his paths, and he gave them all the coaching, attention, and time as if they were his own.
Northern Cape will be indebted to this gentleman forever for the legacy he will leave behind. The two huge moments in our history where he played a very important role was:
- The unification of schools cricket in the early 90’s.
- Been the Local Organizing Secretary of the U13 Standard Bank week in Kimberley in 1999. The success of this tournament is no small measure was to the efforts he put into this sport we all love, cricket.
Eugene Jacobs CEO: ‘’On behalf of the entire cricket family at Northern Cape Cricket (Griqua Cricket) we would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Boon, as he was affectionately known, for his massive contribution to cricket in our Province and in our country. No matter where one went in South Africa everyone knew Mr. Boon and would always enquire about his well-being.
Indeed, it is a sad day that he is retiring, and cricket is losing a student of the game, but I would like to wish him and his wife a very happy and Blessed retirement. To be involved in a school community, cricket community and society for 40 years and more is a real achievement. Enjoy your retirement Mr. & Mrs. Boonzaaier it is richly deserved.”
