Sports fans all over the world are mourning the loss of iconic Newlands ice-cream vendor Moegamat Cassiem, who passed away yesterday morning due to kidney failure.
Boeta Cassiem, as he was affectionately known, was a mainstay at both the Newlands rugby and cricket stadiums for the last 55 years, selling ice-creams and cooldrinks.
During a match, you would often hear him shouting “a sucker to make your girlfriend wakker, a wafer to make your boyfriend stywer” or “a lolly to make you jolly”.
Boeta Cassiem, 67, would also not shy away from making predictions or giving his views on the matches.
Western Province Cricket chief executive Michael Canterbury said: “Boeta
Cassiem’s memory will forever be etched into the history of this famous ground.
“His infectious personality resonated with locals as well as international supporters and his passing will leave a huge hole in the overall match-day experience.
“Our sincere condolences to the family at this very sad time.”
During lockdown, the “Ice Cream Man”, was forced into retirement and in May he was awarded a permanent plaque for his services that will stand in the grass embankment under the famous Newlands oak trees.
Last year fans raised money for his cataract operation – a testament to the role he played in local sport.
Cassiem, who confirmed the death yesterday morning on Cape Talk radio, said: “When he had his eye operation and we saw the amount of support for him from the Capetonians and internationally, it made us realise how precious my father was.
“It was amazing to see how many lives he touched.”
Cape Town legend Boeta Cassiem has died. The famous ice-cream vendor brought joy to both Newlands rugby and cricket stadiums for more than 50 years. https://t.co/KIecq2f4ce
— CapeTalk on 567AM (@CapeTalk) September 16, 2021
On social media, a number of fans and athletes paid tribute to Boeta Cassiem.
Herschelle Gibbs tweeted: “the newlands folk have lost an icon!! Could never forget him. Whata man, what a character!(sic)”
Saw a tweet about it earlier yes…the newlands folk have lost an icon!! Could never forget him. What a man, what a character! #BoetaCassiem #lollytomakeyoujolly #suckertomakeyouwakker 🙏
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) September 16, 2021