THE year 2023 will be forever etched in the minds and hearts of many South Africans and Springboks fans for the bravery shown by the team during their campaign to reclaim the glory and create history by winning the Webb Ellis trophy for the fourth time.
The pride of the nation, the Springboks, continued to do what it takes to unite people, putting smiles on the faces of 60 million South Africans by going up against tough teams and emerging victorious. Today was no different – the team faced yet another epic challenge taking on their arch-rivals, New Zealand’s All Blacks.
Charles Molapisi, CEO at MTN SA, congratulated the Boks on their victory, “we are honoured to have been on this journey of nation-building with the Springboks. This has been a journey of courage and power of what is achievable when people are united for a common goal. For us this has been a partnership of high social impact that has reached all South Africans across urban and rural communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Boks, management, and technical team behind them for having played a beautiful game of rugby, not only for themselves but for the 60 million voices that rallied behind them”.
The Springboks have, over the years, come to stand for so much more than just the game of rugby. MTN heeded the call to back the Boks when their performance had declined in Bok history. Although the team was not producing the required results at that time, MTN understood that with the unflinching support of South Africans, the Boks would reclaim their position as the world’s best.
“The entire squad has come to represent the very best in commitment and cohesion. The squad inspires our children, thrills the fans, and has created a sense of national pride that we have longed for, as the people of South Africa. We at MTN, the primary sponsors of this extraordinary group of managers, coaches, specialists, players, and the South African Rugby Union, could not be prouder of the Springboks,” added Molapisi.
The Springboks gave it their all during their World Cup campaign and showed resilience by overcoming challenges when backed up against the wall. This strength echoes Mzansi’s ability to fight through difficult times and be inspired to make a difference, while remaining steadfast in what they believe. The Boks showed true sportsmanship and dedication to serving and bringing the nation together.
“MTN would like to thank all South Africans who passionately supported the Boks. Those who sent messages of support across the MTN platforms, those who took part in the MTN Gwijo challenge, and those who travelled to France. We also acknowledge the spirit of togetherness and support displayed through social media platforms.
We believe that this played a part in giving the Springboks the strength to do what it takes to make the nation proud and feel united. We Stand Behind the Boks, no matter what”.
