The early hours of Saturday saw the news of the demise of one of Kandy’s most influential coaches, Rohitha Mendis after a long period of illness. He was 38 years at his demise.
One of the most beloved and influential characters in the hill-capital, Rohitha Mendis was a key individual who was behind many successful rugby players from grassroot level.
Having represented St. Anthony’s College in their league winning year in 2001, he had dedicated the next part of his life to the sport as a coach. From coaching the junior teams of Kingswood and St. Anthony’s, Mendis was also one-time assistant in the 1st XV format of both schools.
At the time of his death, he was also the head coach of the University of Peradeniya rugby side.
According to many of the players who he coached, Mendis was nothing but an inspiration and a friendly figure who gave something more than the sport itself during his coaching.
ThePapare.com extends its condolences to the Mendis family in the time of their loss.
