Piyum Prasantha, passed away on Monday, February 11, peacefully in a private hospital after battling with an illness for some time. He represented Isipathana College Rugby Team which became triple champions in 1992.
He was a bright and an obedient student as well as a disciplined rugby player, who excelled as a hooker.
After finishing his studies at Isipathana, he joined Ceylinco Insurance as a Management Trainee. He proved his excellence not only in the field of Rugby. While being employed at Ceylinco, he obtained a B Com Degree. Piyum was always soft spoken and a very balanced thinking person. His sports background and management skills made him a very popular member in the Ceylinco Group. His Senior Management and colleagues adored him alike. It is understood, that the Ceylinco Management supported him throughout his battle against his illness till the day of his demise.
Sanath Martis, his former Rugby coach said that he had never come across such a disciplined player in his entire coaching career and spoke of Pium’s character to all schoolboys he had coached to date. “If late Mr. M.P.F Sally, was alive, I am sure he would have expressed the same sentiments I have of late Piyum” Martis claimed.
Coach Martis re calls the final practice session way back on September 08, 1992, which was just the day before the Premadasa Trophy finals. Piyum who is usually a very punctual player at practices, was not present on the grounds that day. This had made Martis very nervous, as he felt Piyum’s presence was important for the big game. After the practice sessions, the coach noticed Piyum warming up on his own. When he had inquired from Piyum as to why he got delayed, very reluctantly, Piyum had informed about the demise of his father on that day. However, he had decided to come for practices even about an hour late, because he had not wanted to let his team down.
Funeral of Piyum’s father was to take place on the same day the Premadasa Trophy finals was scheduled. Isipathana College became triple champions. Missing his beloved father’s funeral, Piyum represented the College, playing in the vital position as the hooker. Though Isipathana College won the match, there were no victory celebrations, as the team left for to the funeral house after the match.
Piyum’s his dedication and commitment was amply demonstrated by his loyalty towards the College. The Trophy won that day was essentially a trophy in honor of Piyum’s courage.
Even after leaving College, Piyum had given his utmost for the College, by serving in the Rugby Management Committee. Old Boys and tutorial staff of Isipathana College and his colleagues at Ceylinco would miss him and he will never be forgotten and his memory will be cherished forever.
He was a very devoted husband and a loving father, apart from being a loving son and a brother. He leaves his wife Niroshini and the six year old daughter Minu and they would miss him most.
May he attain the supreme bliss of Nirvana.
