PAM Brink Stadium in Springs was once a vital hub for rugby and football in the region – and even hosted two Springbok Tests.
With a capacity of 25 000, it hosted several memorable matches and served as the home ground for both Benoni Premier United and the Eastern Transvaal rugby team, who competed in the Currie Cup First Division.
Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament Liam Jacobs posted a video of the current state of the field, writing: “PAM Brink Stadium once hosted international sports events. It also hosted local sports events. Now, it has been FORGOTTEN by the government of Ekurhuleni!”
Historic beginnings
The stadium was officially inaugurated on 3 July 1949 with a stunning 6-5 victory for Eastern Transvaal over the visiting New Zealand All Blacks – a rare and historic feat.
In 1962, the Eastern Transvaal team once again made headlines by defeating the British & Irish Lions, 19-16.
PAM Brink has been the venue for two Springbok Test matches.
In 1964, over 56 000 spectators – with several more thousands outside the stadium – witnessed France edge out the Springboks, 8-6.
Nearly four decades later, in 2002, the stadium hosted its second and final Test, with the Springboks securing a 49-29 win over Argentina.
A tribute in name
The stadium is named after P.A.M. Brink, who was both the mayor of Springs and the president of the Eastern Transvaal rugby sub-federation.
His leadership played a crucial role in the development of rugby in the region before Eastern Transvaal separated from the Transvaal union in 1947.
Decline and abandonment
Despite its rich legacy, the stadium has fallen into disrepair since it was closed in 2006.
Financial difficulties and a lack of maintenance led to its rapid decline.
Vandalism has left the infrastructure severely damaged, and the stadium has since become an informal shelter for the homeless.
A call for revival
Once a symbol of sporting excellence in the Eastern Gauteng region, PAM Brink Stadium now stands as a stark reminder of neglect.
Community leaders and former sports figures have called for its restoration, hoping to revive both the structure and the local sporting spirit it once embodied.
Future in limbo
With no clear rehabilitation plans in place, the fate of PAM Brink Stadium remains uncertain.
But for many, its legacy – marked by epic matches and community pride – still echoes within its crumbling stands.
Have you ever attended a match at the PAM Brink Stadium?
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/springbok-test-venue-now-a-shelter-for-the-homeless-watch/
