Korfball Australia is saddened to hear of the recent passing of John Spurr. John was a stalwart of the Korfball community for many years, as a player, coach, administrator, and occasional commentator, across all levels of the sport, and will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.

John’s contributions to Korfball in this country extend back further than many in the sport today would realise, and cannot be truly captured with mere words. From an early top flight playing career including National Team representation, to a focus on community and development, the establishment of a strong midweek social competition in Adelaide is a fitting legacy to John’s commitment to growing the sport. In more recent years, John was a wily campaigner playing, refereeing and coaching for his beloved Scaldis in State League, while also starting and growing the successful midweek social competition; meanwhile, the summer saw John being an active participant, organiser and promoter of various Beach Korfball competitions. John was just as involved and enthusiastic behind the scenes, with his contributions on the KSA Board during this time being instrumental in providing avenues for all players to get involved in the sport he loved.

John was equally passionate and driven about causes outside of Korfball, with environmental restoration, educational reform and social justice close to his heart. Likewise, noone who’s ever witnessed a Cheeseworld gig is likely to forget the enthusiasm John brought to these performances.

Our thoughts go out to his wife Alison, children Abbey, Bridget and Ned, the rest of his extended family, and Scaldis Korfball Club. His loss will be felt deeply by the Korfball community.

John Spurr 1970 – 2024