OUR RUGBY HEROES
The way South Africans supported and celebrated the Springboks’ victory at the Rugby World Cup (YOU, 9 November) begs the question: when last did South Africans of all races come together for a common purpose or victory?
It was during the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup. Although Bafana Bafana didn’t do well, being a host country fascinated the whole nation.
Our country started to grow more divided after 2010 as unemployment and crime became worse. Covid-19 finished us off.
Many of us are hopeless, and rightfully so. It’ll take a miracle to solve our country’s problems overnight.
The Springboks pounced when we least expected to smile again as a nation. Their message resembled the last lines of our national anthem, “united we shall stand”. It’s up to us to stand up and strive for the success of our nation.
Way to go Siya Kolisi and the whole Springbok team. You made us proud, guys.
MJ KUBU, EMAIL
■ Congratulations to the Boks! You made us proud and it was indeed a moment to savour, a true advertisement of what it means to be a South African.
While not taking the shine away from the Springboks, is rugby the only unifier?
That sentiment comes from a humble aspect. Many people are talking about the Springboks unifying the nation.
Banyana carved a piece of history by progressing to the knockout stages of the World Cup. Bafana Bafana qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations 2024.
The Proteas ladies reached the final of the cricket world cup, again they were not celebrated. No one spoke about unifying.
Most recently, our national netball team played most of their matches without receiving much publicity.
Is it because rugby is an elite sport, watched by the wealthy and governed by the powerful, who want us to jump each time they do well?
NKOSI M, EMAIL
■ The magnificent Springboks have managed to unite a country torn apart by rising food prices, conflict, heatwaves and questionable leadership. We’ve forgotten about our burning issues and are standing firmly behind them. Braaivleis, potato salad and klippies and cola never tasted this good! The mood around the braai is just magical – happiness and cameraderie like I’ve never experienced.
I can go anywhere in the world and scream from the top of my lungs that I’m from South Africa. You go, Bokke! MYRIAM BARENDSE, EMAIL
■ Did anyone also notice the high number of young people who lined the streets to celebrate the Springboks’ victory tour?
While I refuse to admit that they are all out of work, statistics paint a grim picture of unemployment.
So much has been said about rugby and hope. May this be a reminder of the sort of hope South Africans are clamouring for. Hope for jobs and a better future.
ZANDILE O, EMAIL