The Springboks have sent a special thank you to the entire country of South Africa following an incredible four days of World Cup trophy tours.
After the national team finished their four-day trophy tour on Monday, Springboks captain Siya Kolisi thanked the fervent rugby fans on behalf of the team, stating that they had seen a “united nation” in recent days.
Following their 12-11 victory against New Zealand in the final in France last weekend, the Springboks have been touring with the Webb Ellis Cup through Gauteng, Cape Town, Durban, and East London since Thursday. Thousands of people have lined the streets to welcome the two-time Rugby World Cup winners.
“Those who welcomed us back at OR Tambo International Airport from France, and all along the trophy tour routes and airports, gave us hope and inspired us to keep showing that regardless of your upbringing, race, religion, and background, you can achieve anything,” said Kolisi. “As a Springbok team, we wanted to give South African people hope.”
“We played for the more than 60 million South Africans, as we stated before the Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand, and the incredible support we have seen up close on the trophy tour over the past few days is truly remarkable.”
“This welcome was something else, but it was special to see the scenes when we returned home following the 2019 World Cup.”
“With tens of thousands of people from all walks of life in all four provinces running next to the bus and cheering us on, we witnessed a united nation, and we hope we can continue to see this in society as well. We said we wanted to use rugby to help build the nation.”
“The Springboks may only take the field again next year, but the lessons we’ve learned over the last few days will continue to motivate us as a team,” Kolisi continued.
Once more, we regret not being able to visit every province and community; however, due to our need to return to our clubs, this was not feasible. But we are aware that we would have gotten the same fervor and support in every province.
“I’m grateful, South Africa. We cherish you.
