Just a year after attending the graduation ceremony in which his Springbok coach and mentor was conferred an honourary doctorate degree, the duo of Siya Kolisi and Johan “Rassie” Erasmus has once again returned to North West University.
The double World Cup champions were recently listed as the guests of honours after being handpicked by the university board to celebrate the official unveiling of the Siya Kolisi (rugby) and Invictus (multisport) residences.
The ceremony took place on Monday, where many were in attendance to witness the prestigious moment.
Last week the the University released a statement highlighting that they would be renaming the Dannedorp residence in honour of the Springbok captain because of the amazing example he is to many in our country. With many of its occupants being students who are involved in playing rugby at the university, they emphasised that they hope students will follow in his example and become good role models by making a positive impact in this world.
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Speaking at the event, Siya encouraged those in attendance to shift their focus to making a success out of their tertiary journey and continuing to be good human beings.
“Your opportunities are not just for you. Your blessings are not just for you,” he said.
He further added: “I know that you all are on a journey and that you want to become rugby players. But, remember that you are more than that. You have an opportunity to study, and I wish that I used that opportunity. I didn’t. Rugby is not always going to work for everybody, so make use of all your opportunities. If you want to take anything from my journey it is that you must believe in yourself before anyone else.”
Meanwhile, Rassie expressed how in awe he was at about the University’s forward-thinking approach ahead of the opening of the Invictus multi-sports residence.
Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, said: “At the NWU, we don’t just see Siya Kolisi as a sports icon. We see him as a leader, a trailblazer, and a living testimony to what can be achieved through courage and determination. Naming this residence in his honour is not just about celebrating his achievements on the field, but also recognising the values he represents hard work, humility, and the ability to unite a nation.”
Later that evening Rassie Erasmus surprised students after arriving in a helicopter ahead of the the Varsity Cup match between NWU Eagles and the University of Cape Town’s Ikey Tigers.
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Also see: North-West University honours Springbok Siya Kolisi
