Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus was awarded The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold for his inspirational leadership in national and international rugby.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
The Springbok alignment camp in Cape Town kicked off on the perfect note on Tuesday when coach Rassie Erasmus was honoured with the National Order of Ikhamanga in Gold by the Presidency on the same day.
Mark Alexander, the President of SA Rugby, congratulated Erasmus on being selected for the prestigious award.
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism, and sport. According to the Presidency, Erasmus was nominated to receive the Order for his “inspirational leadership in national and international rugby that has propelled the Springboks to repeated Rugby World Cup championships.
“Victory on the field of play has advanced social cohesion among South Africans and raised the nation’s esteem in the international community,” said the Presidency.
Alexander said: “On behalf of SA Rugby, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rassie Erasmus on the announcement of his receiving the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold. This prestigious honour is a fitting recognition of his outstanding contribution to rugby and to the promotion of social cohesion in our country.
“Rassie’s achievements have united South Africans across communities — instilling pride and inspiring a spirit of togetherness through the game we love. His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the sport and on our nation.
"We are honoured to celebrate this milestone with him. Rassie Erasmus is a true son of the South African soil, and this accolade reflects the immense impact he has had both on and off the field.”
The national accolade adds to a growing list of non-sporting honors for the World Cup-winning mastermind.
In March 2024, Erasmus received an honorary doctorate from the North-West University (NWU), in recognition of “his innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during their victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns, his significant standing in the international rugby coaching arena, his strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion, and his commitment to social responsibility.”