The UNAM rugby field became a place of reflection and remembrance as friends, family, teammates, and members of the rugby fraternity gathered to honour the life of Graham April following his passing on the 1st of May.

The memorial service, hosted by the UNAM Rugby Sports Club at the University of Namibia, brought together those whose lives were touched by April both on and off the rugby field.

Among those present were representatives from the Namibia Rugby Union, including the union's Chief Executive Officer, alongside teammates and supporters who came to pay their final respects to a player remembered for his commitment, humility, and passion for the sport.

April's rugby journey began to gain national recognition in 2014 at the age of 19, when he was selected to represent Namibia at the World Rugby Under-20 Trophy tournament in Hong Kong.

A year later, he once again wore national colours at the same competition in Portugal, continuing to establish himself as one of the country's promising rugby talents.

His contributions would later play an important role in one of the most successful periods in the history of the UNAM Rugby Club, as the team secured consecutive NRU Premier League title-winning seasons between 2015 and 2017.

But beyond his achievements on the field, those closest to him remembered a personality that left a lasting impression within the team environment.

Teammates described April as a lively and uplifting presence whose energy brought people together during both difficult and successful moments. They remembered him as someone who constantly encouraged others, placed the team before himself, and carried a sense of humour that could ease pressure even in the most demanding situations.

Family members remembered him as a caring and deeply compassionate individual who valued the people around him and remained grounded despite his accomplishments in rugby.

They reflected on a son, brother, and relative whose kindness extended beyond the sport, describing him as someone who carried a warmth that made people feel welcomed and appreciated.

While the loss of Graham April continues to be felt across Namibian rugby, the gathering at UNAM served as a reminder of the legacy he leaves behind, one built not only through achievements on the field but through the relationships, memories, and lives he touched along the way.

As the memorial service came to a close, those gathered left with memories of a player, teammate, friend, and family member whose impact will continue to live on within the UNAM rugby family and the wider rugby community.