After what has been a successful year for the South African national rugby team, the Springboks – the genius behind the team Doctor Rassie Erasmus has been nominated to receive yet another prestigious award.
This comes as it was recently announced that Rassie, who led the Boks to win five trophies and 11 out of 13 matches this year, will be awarded the FW De Klerk’s annual Goodwill Award.
Since stepping into the role as both coach and director of rugby Rassie has been at the forefront of change when it comes to transforming the current Springbok team. During his tenure with the national team, he has managed to reach great success firstly in creating transformation within the team, selecting Siya Kolisi as the first ever black Springbok captain, winning two Rugby World Cups (2019 and 2023) and a British and Irish Lions series in 2021 – and as of this year managed to create excellent depth by giving young players experience in the national setup.
The foundation released a statement highlighting that Rassie’s passion for the Springboks is what has made him a standout candidate for the award, as well as his ability to inspire people from all walks of life by instilling pride and nation-building.
“The work of the FW de Klerk Foundation resonates with the non-racial, meritocratic, humble and patriotic values espoused by Rassie during his tenure as the national coach,” the foundation highlighted.
“The Springboks’ victories continue to unite South Africans in celebration and also serve to inspire every citizen to derive important life lessons about working together as a nation, mutual respect, tolerance, humanity, perseverance, teamwork, discipline, leadership and serving the interest of all of our people.”
Following the announcement, Rassie has taken to X (formerly Twitter) thanking the FW De Klerk Foundation for the honour.
Thank you to the #FWdeKlerkFoundation & the Boks for this great honour!! It feels “unfair” getting recognition for something you love and enjoy so much. Thanks to all the South Africans who support and inspire us to deliver. This is a tribute to you ?? https://t.co/3IpEp9eoeK
— Johan Erasmus (@RassieRugby) December 16, 2024
Meanwhile, this is the second time this year that Rassie Erasmus received a prestigious recognition. This after he was conferred an Honourary Doctorate Degree by the North West University earlier this year.
