Tributes stream in after shock death of teenage Jeppe High rugby player

Tributes and messages of condolences have poured in for the Jeppe High Grade 11 learner who died following a rugby match in Brakpan.

Bowie collapsed shortly after a game between the Jeppe and Hoërskool Die Anker U16s and there was an immediate cessation of all the sporting activities as everyone in attendance gathered in prayer while the teenager was tended to by paramedics. 

But despite the medical staff’s best efforts to save his life, Bowie was declared dead on the scene. 

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of one of our learners, Kaiden Bowie (Grade 11) who tragically passed away. Further information regarding his memorial service will follow in due course,” Jeppe said in a statement on Wednesday.

SCHOOLS AROUND THE COUNTRY MOURN WITH JEPPE HIGH

The Jeppe High community has received widespread support from schools around the country, with the likes of Paarl Boys’ High, St Benedict’s College, St David’s Marist, The Ridge School, Durban High, St Stithians, Paul Roos all sending heartfelt messages of condolences via social media.

“Our deepest condolences to Jeppe High School for Boys. Resuming our proud and treasured relationship last year, we are devastated by your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the entire Jeppe community and especially to the Bowie family,” wrote Durban High School.

“We offer our sincere condolences to the Bowie family, Kaiden’s friends and brothers at Jeppe High as well as the Jeppe community as a whole. No words can ever comfort or soothe. Our prayer is that the Lord be your strength through this time of mourning. May his beloved soul rest in eternal peace,” added St Benedict’s College Bedfordview.

“Our sincerest condolences to the Bowie Family, to the Jeppe High School for Boys community and to all who knew and loved Kaiden from One and All at St Stithians College. We hold you in our thoughts and prayers,” said St Stithians College.

“Our deepest condolences to the Bowie family, friend of Kaiden and the Jeppe High School for Boys community. Our hearts go out to you and we hold you in our prayers and thoughts. We are so sorry for your loss,” added Waterstone College.

St David’s Marist Inanda added; “Our deepest sympathies to the Bowie family, the Jeppe community and all who knew and loved Kaiden. We grieve the loss of this young life with you. MHDSRIP.”

“Our prayers and thoughts are with you,” Boishaai wrote.

St Stithians also wrote: “Our deepest condolences on the passing of Kaiden. Our thoughts are with you and the entire Jeppe community during this difficult time.”

Paul Roos Gymnasium said: “The Paul Roos family sends their heartfelt condolences to the Jeppe Boys’ family.

“We send out deepest condolences to the Jeppe High School community during this difficult time. May strength and unity guide you through sorrow. May memories of Kaiden Bowie bring comfort,” wrote The Ridge School.

“We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of one of our learners, Kaiden Bowie (Grade 11) who tragically passed away. Further information regarding his memorial service will follow in due course,” Jeppe said in a statement on Wednesday. 

All classes were halted on Wednesday, as the Department of Education made counsellors available to assist learners and teachers who witnessed the tragic incident. 

“We are overwhelmed by the care and love that we, as a school, have experienced over the past 24 hours. Counsellors from many schools and organisations have prioritised our boys and staff over their own; incredible amounts of messages; the generous deliveries of flowers are all hugely appreciated,” Jeppe High said in a new statement on Thursday.

The SAPeople website also conveys its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Kaiden Bowie.