For those fortunate enough to know him, Henning was far more than a talented sportsman. He was a giant of a man in every sense of the word – respected, admired and loved by all who crossed his path. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by family, friends and the wider sporting fraternity.

While many will remember Liebenberg for his achievements on the rugby field, those closest to him knew that his greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and a proud grandfather whose world revolved around those he loved most.

Thick as thieves - Henning, Tiaan, and Hercú - Facebook

Henning was the father of former Springbok, Toyota Cheetahs, and Stormer hooker Tiaan Liebenberg, as well as Hercú Liebenberg, who also proudly represented the Free State in more than 75 matches wearing the number two jersey.

A gifted sportsman, Liebenberg represented both Free State and Griquas at fullback. His talents extended beyond rugby, with an impressive cricket career for Griquas. In 23 first-class matches, the all-rounder scored 683 runs, registered three half-centuries, claimed 52 wickets and took 23 catches.

Yet it was away from the sporting arena where Henning arguably left his greatest legacy.

Pulaan and Henning Liebenberg - Facebook

He was larger than life. His presence filled a room, not through loudness or stature alone, but through genuine warmth, kindness and a sincere interest in people. Whether speaking to lifelong friends or complete strangers, he had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel valued.

The bond between Henning and his sons went far beyond that of a father and his children. They were best friends. They hunted together, played golf together, shared countless laughs and treasured every opportunity to spend time together. By all accounts, they were as thick as thieves – they were best friends.

Speaking to OFM Sport, an emotional Tiaan paid tribute to the man who shaped him and his brother into the men they are today.

Tiaan Liebenberg is the forwards coach of the Cheetahs - Morgan Piek

“Firstly, he was a godly man. Secondly, he was a family man. His family meant everything to him.

“Everything he did, he ate, he breathed, he slept his family, and it was always about us, never about him.

“He was caring, loving. He was the boss, we all knew that, but he was caring and he loved everybody dearly. He taught us how to love and he loved my mom to death, till the day he died.”

Tiaan said the relationship he shared with his father was one that many could only dream of.

Tiaan and Hercú Liebenberg when they played against each other for Western Province and the Cheetahs at Newlands - Gallo

“We used to speak five or six times a day. We had a great relationship. Wian du Preez said to me the other day that he never saw us as a father and son, he saw us as friends. That's the type of relationship we had.

“Myself, Hercie and my old man, we did everything together if it was possible. We played golf together, we'd go hunting together. We did everything together.

“He had great friends, don't get me wrong, but he never needed friends because he had us. He made you feel that way. He was a great example of a father and a mentor. He's the type of person that I would love to be one day.”

Pulaan and Henning Liebenberg - Facebook

Despite the immense grief, the Liebenberg family draw comfort from their faith.

“We're all believers and we believe in the afterlife. We believe that we'll go to heaven and that we'll see each other again. I think that's what we're holding onto.

“He had so many people that he helped. He had so many people that looked up to him. He had so many people that seriously loved him. That's nice to know.

“I love him with all my heart and soul, and I'm going to miss him so much.”

Henning will be laid to rest on Friday, 26 June, at Monte Bello Estate in Bloemfontein. The service will begin at 11:00.

He is survived by his loving wife Pulaan, his three children, and seven grandchildren.

Henning Liebenberg's legacy extends far beyond rugby and cricket. It lives on in the values he instilled, the lives he touched and the family he cherished above all else.

Rest in peace, Henning Liebenberg.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport