Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the North-West University in Potchefstroom for his outstanding contributions to South African rugby. The 51-year-old attended the inauguration ceremony on Thursday, accompanied by Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, who proudly carried the Webb Ellis Cup.
Hundreds of fans gathered on the university campus to celebrate the two-time World Cup winners. Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University, praised Erasmus for his impact on the country, stating, “Rassie, the world has had its eye on you for many years now, but so have we at the North-West University. We saw how you made big differences, and small ones.”
Kolisi Congratulates Erasmus on Honorary Doctorate
Siya Kolisi, who is currently recovering from a hand injury sustained while playing for Racing 92 in France, expressed his gratitude towards Erasmus.
“I want to say congratulations to coach Rassie, he really deserves it,” said Kolisi. “He gave me my first contract when I was 18, so I have experienced everything that he has done. I was very naughty, and he guided me. For some reason he stuck with me, but said I can do so much more with my talent, but that I aren’t using it.”
Kolisi emphasised the profound impact Erasmus has had on his life, his family, and his community. “I wouldn’t be where I am without him, my family wouldn’t be where they are without him and my community wouldn’t be where they are without him,” he added.
Erasmus Humbled by Recognition
Erasmus admitted feeling out of his comfort zone during the inauguration ceremony. “I was really out of my comfort zone, and was more nervous than playing a Test in front of 80,000 people,” he joked. “I now really feel part of the North-West University. They are my kind of people.”
The honorary doctorate was bestowed upon Erasmus in recognition of his innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during their victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns, his significant standing in the international rugby coaching arena, his strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion, and his commitment to social responsibility.
Springboks’ Upcoming Matches
The Springboks are set to kick off their 2024 season with a Test against Wales in London on 22 June, followed by a two-Test series against Ireland in July. They will then face Portugal in a one-off Test in Bloemfontein, where Erasmus attended the Free State University.
In August and September, the Boks will participate in the annual Rugby Championship, taking on Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand in a double round of matches against each team.
As South Africa looks forward to another exciting year of rugby, the recognition of Rassie Erasmus’ contributions serves as a reminder of the incredible impact he has had on the sport and the nation as a whole.