Death of rugby coach Quentin Israel

DEATH: Quentin Israel, the famous and very knowledgeable rugby coach and schoolmaster, is no more. He passed away after a brief illness and his funeral took place yesterday (Saturday) at the General Cemetery, Kanatte amidst a distinguished set of his former students, rugby players and numerous friends he made through the years. He was 73 years old.

Quenta', as he was very popularly known, was a product of Trinity College (Kandy). He shone as a centre three-quarter under Dharmasiri Madugalle and Lucky Vitharana. He later turned out for Havelocks with distinction and went on to coach them to success of many occasions.

Though an old boy of Trinity, 'Quenta', went on to coach S. Thomas' for number of years and even his alma-mater with success. Once he coached the Thomians who registered 43 wins in-a-row, coached Trinity to win the Bradby Shield on five occasions. He was a member of the staff at both institutions and commanded respect wherever he went.

Quenta' was a former President of Havelocks and as a coach, he was one of the best having studied the strengths and weaknesses of every opposing side. He also served the SLRFU.

He will be missed by his numerous friends. He was certainly missed at yesterday's Cup category final between Sri Lanka and Kazakhastan at Longden Place. His remains were laid at the Chapel of Transfiguration at S.

Thomas' College last morning and the cortege left A. F. Raymonds Funeral Parlour in the evening for cremation.

May he rest in peace.

- L.G.