Trinity College rugby skipper in the years 1957 & 1958, Rugby lionsmen and an valued contributor of ThePapare.com Ken De Joodt is no more. He was 76 years at the time of his demise.
Ken, who is fondly remembered for his exquisite club rugby career where he excelled playing in an array of clubs that include Kandy, Up Country, Low Country, Havies, Uva and finally donned the All Ceylon jersey to represent the country.
He will be remembered in the hallways of Trinity College for the legacy he leaves behind as an inspirational rugby player and a humble sportsperson. Captaining the 1957 Trinity side, Ken completed the record Bradby winning streak with his team winning it for the sixth consecutive year. Playing as a full back and fly half for the school team, Ken was later conferred with the honorary Lion for his excellence in rugby.
During his school time, Ken was acclaimed to be the best in the sport and ended up representing combined schools, Up-Country & Low Country. Later he was the first choice for the Ceylon Barbarians and the All Ceylon team that played in the famous All-India tournament.
While in school, he got the invitation to play for Kandy Sports Club where he played a few games alongside Dharmasiri Madugalle, Uvais Odayar, M Fawmy & Miles Christoferez. From Nittawela, Ken moved to the Havelock town club and ended playing for Uva when he took up planting.
The rugby fraternity of the past would reminiscence Ken as a kicking maestro and a speedster who did not pity a single opponent. Even years after his prolific sporting career, Ken continued his passion for the sport sharing his knowledge and wisdom on to many forums as well as ThePapare.com.
ThePapare crew, gather the rugby community in extending their condolences to his family.
