Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, widely known as Affies, is mourning the death of Grade 12 learner Kéan Botha, who passed away just one day after celebrating his 18th birthday. The young learner died on Sunday after a battle with cancer, leaving his family, friends, classmates and the wider school community grieving.
Kéan was remembered at Affies not only as a dedicated learner but also as a talented hockey player who represented the school’s first team. His sporting ability earned him recognition in 2025 when he was named the school’s most promising player.
His death has brought particular sadness to the Affies community because he was in Grade 12 and had reached an important milestone in his life. Instead of continuing towards the end of his school career and preparing for life after matric, his family and friends are now having to say goodbye to him.
Affies confirmed his passing in a statement shared with the school community. The school described Kéan as an avid hockey player and highlighted the recognition he received for his sporting achievements. His contribution to the school’s first team made him a familiar figure among fellow learners and supporters of Affies hockey.
The school also extended its condolences to Kéan’s family and friends, offering prayers for them during what it described as an extremely difficult period.
The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from members of the school community and beyond. Maritzburg College was among those who expressed condolences to Affies and the Botha family, remembering Kéan as a talented hockey player and a proud Affie. The school said his sporting spirit and character would be remembered with great respect.
Messages shared by those who knew or followed Kéan also reflected on his character. Some remembered him as someone who put others before himself despite facing his own difficult circumstances. Others described him as a young person of strong character whose life had an impact on those around him.
Kéan’s passing comes during a period in which another South African school community was also mourning the loss of a young learner. In September, Grade 9 learner Nico Caine, a day scholar at Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, also passed away.
For Kéan’s loved ones, his death marks the loss of a young life filled with promise. Turning 18 is normally a milestone associated with celebration and the beginning of adulthood. For the Botha family, however, the occasion was followed by unimaginable grief.
As tributes continue to be shared, Kéan will be remembered for his passion for hockey, his achievements at Affies and the impression he made on those around him.
The Affies community has joined his family and friends in mourning, remembering a young man whose life, though tragically short, touched many people.
May Kéan Botha rest in peace, and may his family, friends and school community find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
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