Glenwood to pay their last respects to their Rugby Coach GOAT

Glenwood FB page:
Memorial Service for Toppy Hortop
We invite you to join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Toppy Hortop, a beloved teacher, mentor, and legendary rugby coach at Glenwood High School.
đź“… Date: Thursday, 31 October 2024
đź•š Time: 11:00 AM
đź“Ť Venue: Glenwood High School Hall

Toppy dedicated over 50 years to Glenwood, shaping countless lives with his passion for education and rugby. His impact on the community will never be forgotten.
Please join us as we honor his memory and share stories of a life well-lived.


From a former Glenwood student and standout sportsman in his school days:
Toppy will be fondly remembered as a remarkable rugby coach for Glenwood High School but he was also a brilliant English teacher.

Much like Robin Williams’ character in Dead Poets Society, Toppy brought an infectious energy and wit to his English lessons. He was a true academic at heart, deeply passionate about the English language, and he had a knack for making every class engaging.

One former student remarked, if he had a squash match after school and your class was scheduled late in the day, he would playfully ask for “volunteers” to offer a “light caning” so he could warm up his shoulder for his match. Without hesitation, the entire class would eagerly jump up. It was something of an “honour” to be caned by him. He was a lefty and would cane with a little wrist flick all in good humour.

Rain or shine, he’d join the boys for a game of touch rugby on Dixon’s Field after the Captain’s Run on Fridays. Fiercely competitive and exceptionally skilled, Toppy embodied the best of both the academic and athletic worlds.

He was, in every sense, a brilliant English teacher, an outstanding rugby mentor, and an extraordinary human being.


More from the Glenwood FB (posted after Toppy passing on Tuesday, 22/10/2024)
The Glenwood community mourns the loss of an iconic legend, Toppy Hortop. Known for his dedication both on and off the rugby field. Toppy first joined Glenwood back in 1971 and remained a vital part of our school for over 50 years. As a beloved English teacher and rugby coach, he shaped countless lives, inspiring generations of students and athletes with his energy, wisdom, and principles.
Toppy coached our 1st XV for many years, but his influence did not stop there. He continued to coach the 3rd, 5th, and 6th XV teams, always offering his guidance wherever it was needed, even on days when he was not officially coaching. His love for rugby and education went hand in hand, always striving for the holistic development of his students.
A true mentor, Toppy had a profound impact on some of South Africa’s greatest rugby players, including Springbok Captains Warren Whiteley and Gary Teichmann. Warren, who played under Toppy’s guidance, said, “Mr. Hortop is a Legend! He had a great impact on my career as a coach and as a person, especially with his principles and values.”
Toppy’s passion, commitment, and spirit will forever be remembered. He was not just a teacher or a coach, but a true role model who dedicated his life to bettering others. Rest in peace, Toppy. You will always be a part of Glenwood. 🌿

Leave a Reply

5 Comments

  1. avatar
    #5 Grasshopper

    His memorial here, with another legend from the school, Rob ‘Hutchie’ Hutchison, my old cricket coach. Was at Glenwood from 1975 too. Appearances from John Allan & Warren Whiteley, https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=K1GYc6YIE_M

    ReplyReply
    1 November, 2024 at 12:58
  2. avatar
    #4 agter_die_pale_pa

    Many more “Toppy’s” is what is sorely missing in South Africa’s school system. RIP to a legend. Hats-off also to Glenwood for creating an environment where someone can express themselves for half a century, not wanting to look for “greener pastures”. Times truly have changed in all spheres of employment.

    ReplyReply
    1 November, 2024 at 12:12
  3. avatar
    #3 Grizzly

    Blyk dat hy n groot verskil in baie kinder se lewe gemaak het.Glad nie van hom geweet nie maar klink na n yster.Jammer aan die Glenwood community.

    ReplyReply
    31 October, 2024 at 07:44
  4. avatar
    #2 Henkies

    Rest Well Toppy, a Glenwood and KZN icon!! You will be sorely missed.

    ReplyReply
    30 October, 2024 at 21:23
  5. avatar
    #1 Grasshopper

    RIP Toppy, not just an English Teacher, coach & confidante, a legend of a man! He taught me about life & coached me at Varsity U20s. I reckon GOBS should petition for Dixons to be renamed Hortops. Also, a bust of him if his family is open to that. Only 2nd to Skonk in legendary status in KZN! He attended St Henry’s Marist Brothers & I believe made Duikers at scrum half. He will be sorely missed. Condolences to his family. The memorial is tomorrow & I hope live streamed for OBs overseas….

    ReplyReply
    29 October, 2024 at 21:25