Page 15 - IFV Issue 11 November 2023

Sport

117 years of the Springbokkie

Interesting Facts about South
African Rugby:
• The Springboks have a storied history
dating back to 1891, boasting over 1,000
test matches and an impressive 70%-win
rate.
• They have claimed the Rugby
John Smit lifts the Webb Ellis Cup with Thabo Mbeki in Paris, 2007... Championship (formerly the Tri-Nations)
title a remarkable 12 times, showcasing
their consistency and excellence.
• The Springbok emblem, featuring a
leaping springbok, was designed by artist
William Webb in 1908 and has become
one of the most recognisable symbols
in rugby, instilling pride in the hearts of
South African rugby fans.
...and Siya Kolisi lifts the same trophy 12 years later at the 2019 RWC in Japan
• The traditional green and gold jerseys,
achieved a historic fourth World Cup the resilience and unity that define our first worn in 1895, symbolise the natural
victory. They faced New Zealand, a nation. It’s not just about the trophies; beauty and mineral wealth of South
formidable opponent, and the match it’s about the people who never gave Africa, representing not just a team but an
was a nail-biter. The final score, 12-11 up, who faced adversity head-on, and entire nation.
in South Africa’s favour, was a moment who continue to dream of a better • The Springboks’ first overseas game was
of elation and a point of pride. Once South Africa. in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1906, marking
again, the nation found solace and the start of their period of unrivalled
pride in the prowess of their rugby A Legacy of Unity dominance in international rugby.
heroes during challenging times. Reflecting on this incredible journey, • In a remarkable turn of history, a cease-
Siya Kolisi beautifully encapsulated I feel deeply honoured to have grown fire was declared during the Second Boer
the South African spirit in his words: up in such a remarkable time in my War in 1902 so that British and Boer forces
“We chose to dedicate this World Cup country’s history. Rugby has been a could play a rugby match. The British won
to you, the people because we are beacon of hope, a symbol of unity, 11-9 in Krugersdorp, South Africa, in a
where we are today because of you. and a reminder that even in the face moment that showed the extraordinary
The other countries don’t understand. of challenges, the Rainbow Nation can power of sport in uniting even adversaries.
You have to be a South African to stand together as one. It’s a legacy • Due to anti-apartheid sporting boycotts,
understand the hardships you go that continues to inspire us, reminding the Springboks were excluded from the
through in this country.” us that together, we can overcome first two Rugby World Cups in 1987 and
In his words, we see a reflection of anything. 1991.

The Villager • Issue 11 2023 • 13