Siya Kolisi - Winning the Rugby World Cup in 2023 was bigger than in 2019 | The Big Jim Show

Summary

Siya Kolisi reflects on winning the Rugby World Cup again in 2023, saying this victory was for the people of South Africa during a time of struggle. He discusses the team's mindset of playing for the country, not themselves, to inspire hope. He credits head coach Rassie Erasmus for believing in him from the start, pushing the team to transform and represent all of South Africa, and keeping the players humble and united. Kolisi emphasizes the Springboks overcame challenges by having honest conversations, not taking critiques personally, and putting the team above individual egos.

Takeaways

• 😊 Siya feels immense pride and joy in winning the Rugby World Cup for the people of South Africa
• 👨‍👦‍👦 The Springboks see themselves as representatives of the hopes and struggles of all South Africans
• 🌍 Winning the World Cup was about inspiring hope and possibility in a country facing many challenges
• 🙏 Siya credits coach Rassie with believing in him and shaping the team's mindset and purpose
• 🤝 Rassie pushed the team on inclusion and representing the diversity of South Africa
• 😤 The team holds each other accountable to stay grounded and not get 'big-headed'
• 🤔 Siya reflects on his difficult upbringing and wild youth before Rassie helped him mature
• ⚖️ Rassie got Siya out of an underage contract and gave him a chance to realize his potential
• 👫 Rassie and the team remind Siya where he came from to re-ground him when needed
• 🧠 Open and honest conversations strengthen the Springboks without anyone taking critique personally

Q & A

What did it feel like for Siya Kolisi and the team when they returned to South Africa after winning the World Cup?

Kolisi said it was unbelievable and like nothing he had experienced before. The reception from the South African people was incredible and really showed what it meant to them.

Why did Kolisi and the other players feel this World Cup win was especially for the people of South Africa?

Because South Africa has many struggles like lack of electricity, poverty, hunger and people feeling hopeless. The team wanted to inspire South Africans and give them something to feel proud of and hang onto even with all the challenges.

How does Kolisi try to help kids from similar backgrounds as him?

He sees his role now as creating opportunities for kids from backgrounds like his, so they don't suffer as much as he did. He wants to show them that even with challenges, achieving their dreams is possible.

What does Kolisi say about coach Rassie Erasmus's impact on him and the team?

Kolisi credits Erasmus with backing him from the start, holding him accountable, putting the right systems in place, talking openly about transformation, and reminding the players not to forget the struggles many South Africans face in their daily lives.

How does the Springboks team help players avoid getting too arrogant or 'big-headed'?

The teammates call each other out if someone starts acting too arrogant. There is a culture of honest conversations where no one takes critique personally, so they can give each other constructive feedback.

How does Kolisi react when he gets substituted early in a game?

He says he doesn't like it but understands it's for the good of the team. Other players make a bigger impact so he accepts Erasmus's decision even if it's disappointing personally.

What makes this Springboks team able to have such open and honest conversations?

The trust they have built between one another and the understanding that any critique is not meant personally but to make the team stronger.

Why was transformation an important theme emphasized by Erasmus with this World Cup team?

To better represent the diversity of South Africa compared to teams of the past before apartheid ended. Erasmus made transformation a priority through opportunities given to players of different backgrounds.

How did Erasmus help turn Kolisi's life around earlier in his career?

Kolisi was struggling with off-field problems as a young player. Rather than give up on him, Erasmus provided support through getting lawyers to resolve contract issues and giving Kolisi opportunities to improve his dedication and lifestyle.

What gives Kolisi and other players motivation when they feel like giving up?

Remembering children from their communities who look up to them and need inspiration. Visualizing making a positive impact on the next generation keeps them motivated.