An unnamed South African club rugby player drowned and five of his teammates are missing feared dead after they were swept out to sea.
The players, who represent Motherwell Rugby Club, went swimming off the south coast following a beach practice session in Port Elizabeth.
"These young men were preparing to compete in a South African Rugby Union Easter Tournament in Cape Town in a fortnight and were enjoying a carefree day on the beach with their teammates," said South African Rugby Union President Oregan Hoskins.
"To have their afternoon turned into a day of tragedy is shocking for the whole rugby community and our thoughts and prayers go out to their families."
A total of 15 people, including members of the public, were rescued after being pulled out to sea at Blue Water Bay Beach.
