Today, in France, the Springboks begin a Rugby World Cup campaign that puts them on the brink of making sporting history. The hope of the country will be that Boks bring home the Webb Ellis Cup, the game’s biggest prize, a record fourth time.
The team’s performance in the pre-tournament warm-up games suggests that they are as hungry as ever to take on and beat the best in the world and emerge victorious when the tournament ends next month.
But their mission is significant in other important ways, too. It underlines once more the success of rugby’s long journey of transformation; once a source of division and controversy, the Springboks are now cemented in the hearts of South Africans of all races and walks of life.
Rugby has been exemplary in showing what progress can be made in transformation when sports administrators show visionary leadership.
In the past it was seen as a sport for one section of the population, but the game today is embraced and supported by most South Africans. At one time Springbok team selection invariably sparked bitter, yet justified, comment over racial balance, but today the team can focus purely on their performance on the pitch without extraneous diversions.
A key to rugby’s transformation, from which other sporting codes can learn, has been the creation of a nonracial pipeline of fresh talent
In step with the sport itself, the Springboks have become one of the most inclusive and representative national teams. The Boks are also the most successful, matching the All Blacks in claiming the Webb Ellis Cup three times. In so doing, they have demonstrated how transformation and inclusivity can lead to the opening up of opportunity for all on merit.
A key to rugby’s transformation, from which other sporting codes can learn, has been the creation of a nonracial pipeline of fresh talent, which has at the same time delivered world-beating performance.
The glowing record of the Boks lifts the nation’s mood and is emblematic of South Africa at its best. Off the pitch, the team’s legacy includes their role in nation-building; they have consistently given South Africans cause to put their differences aside and join in celebrating together. And such players as team captain Siya Kolisi, along with many others, are beacons of aspiration for every child, regardless of their circumstances.
As they begin their campaign in Marseille this afternoon, the men in green and gold are carrying the hopes of all South Africans for another moment of glory — something we sorely need in these trying times.
If they bring home the cup for a fourth time, as we trust they will, Kolisi’s squad will have written a new chapter in rugby history. All they need is passion, skill and courage — qualities they have in abundance.
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