On 13 April 2022, CoolPlay lost a great man.
Johan Schlebusch joined Barry O’Mahony in 2010 in the development and running of the Vuka League, a programme to get schools from disadvantaged communities to play regular rugby fixtures. In 2013 the already popular programme was expanded into one targeting the social and emotional development of youth through sport, and the CoolPlay Way was born. Over the years thousands of learners have been a part of the programme. In 2021, even despite the challenges of a pandemic, a total of 1583 learners were engaged in the sessions made available to them across 85 sport squads and through a network of 21 schools. The programme has proven to build confidence, respect and resilience in learners who have a better chance of success in life.
Laureus visit to CoolPlay sites in 2013
Johan’s vast experience in Human Resources in large corporate environments meant that he was well-equipped to guide and mentor CoolPlay staff and Champions to deliver a world class sport-for-development programme. His role in the organisation had been one which guided operations and he has been referred to as the “Lighthouse of the CoolPlay mission” – always bringing the learners’ journey firmly into view. The clarity and belief that he had in CoolPlay was infectious and the number of hours he volunteered to the programme were in the thousands.
Johan enjoying the celebrations at the 2019 Freedom Day Tournament
Johan’s passion for sport was unquestionable, and for every lesson he chose to share, he had a sporting story to nail it down. As a loyal family man, he included CoolPlay as a part of the family tree. Trustees, management and Champions all forged special relationships with him and his ability to recall small details, meant that when talking to him – you really knew he cared.
At Johan’s memorial service held with close family, friends and colleagues, it was evident that he was a man with a truly authentic and consistent way of ‘Championing people” before they saw potential in themselves. From all memories shared on the day he was remembered as a kind, determined and optimistic person who was known for his listening skills and the ability to ask the right questions.
In the words of Barry O’Mahony; “The great tree has fallen. However, he spent a long time nurturing the seedlings that will now flourish.”
The Johan Schlebusch Shield
To honour his memory and commitment to the CoolPlay Way, the Johan Schlebusch Shield has been created. This is a token awarded at each CoolPlay Tournament to the team which displays team spirit in the CoolPlay Way which recognises:
1. Respect for oneself and others
2. Gender equality
3. Growth and development-oriented thinking
4. An optimistic outlook and a positive attitude
5. A strong sense of self-awareness
6. Staying calm and managing emotions
7. Working hard and taking responsibility
8. Patience and the understanding that change takes time
9. Clear communication
10. Honesty
Sarepta Primary – Johan Schlebusch Shield Winners – April 2022
The first team to have received this shield was the Sarepta Primary U13 boys’ rugby team, who represented the CoolPlay Way at a tournament held in Stellenbosch on Friday 29 April. In the words of the school representative from Sarepta Primary “History was made today – imagine what is possible.” We believe this would make Johan proud.
A few words from members of the CoolPlay greater family:
“To me he was an extremely humble and caring human, absolutely dedicated to uplifting the lives of young people. He will be greatly missed by many, many people.” – Morne du Plessis (Laureus Sport for Good)
“Johan was such a very special man in so many ways and it was a privilege to work with him for close to ten years.” – Charles Ainsley (The Trust Connection)
“Johan was one of the greatest men who has love for all human kind. His loyalty, love and respect molded me to the person I am today. I learnt that no matter who you are and the background you come from you can make it if you put love and hard work into it. He had so much time to listen and always focused on the positive side of everything. His love for changing people’s lives, be them children or adults will forever be cherished. Let his legacy live on. He shall forever stay in our hearts Champion Johan.” – Grace Mapfumo (CoolPlay Champion)
“Johan played such a key role in ensuring that the life skill programme was properly injected into the schools. He also was patient with our coaches in the beginning to allow them to take the time understand the power of those crucial lessons. We do now, for sure. We believe that life skills is the ultimate, with sport the vehicle. He was pleased with that I know when we last spoke.” – Vince van der Bijl (MasiSport / Ukhanyo Primary and Masiphumelele High)
“Our regular catch-up sessions covered so many different topics and over that garden table – I learned so much about myself. Johan seemed to exude information and history about CoolPlay with such passion, with every story having an important lesson attached to it – each conversation strategically placed so that I was able to learn from passed victories and mistakes and find my feet in the organisation.” – Tori Gardner (CoolPlay CEO)